A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Piazza Armerina vs. Chartres for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Piazza Armerina or Chartres?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Piazza Armerina and Chartres. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Piazza Armerina

Piazza Armerina is a historic, charming, and authentic town. Visitors also love the food and museums.

Chartres

Chartres is a grand, spectacular, and historic town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. And you can't forget about the food and museums.

Piazza Armerina and Chartres: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Piazza Armerina or Chartres?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Piazza Armerina than Chartres, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Piazza Armerina is better known for its museums, nightlife, and historical sights, while Chartres is more popular for its small town charm. Piazza Armerina is well known for it's local atmosphere and its premiere historic sight - the Villa Romana del Casale. Also, Piazza Armerina is famous for Villa Romana del Casale. Chartres is well known for its beautiful cathedral and long running history.

How is Piazza Armerina different from Chartres?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Piazza Armerina or Chartres?

Piazza Armerina
Chartres

Piazza Armerina is great for its historical sights. Also, Chartres is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

Piazza Armerina offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Most people head to town specifically to visit Villa Romana del Casale, which is a few kilometers away. It's a beautiful Roman villa that can be explored in a few hours. Also in town is an Aragonese Castle and an 18th century Duomo.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Chartres. Most visitors make the trip to see the spectacular Gothic cathedral, Cathédrale Notre-Dame. It was completed in 1220 and is famous for its beautiful stained glass windows.


Is the Food Better in Piazza Armerina or Chartres? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Piazza Armerina
Chartres

Dining out at restaurants in both Piazza Armerina and Chartres can be an enjoyable experience.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Piazza Armerina. Most visitors pass through town, stopping to visit Villa Romana del Casale. There are some pizzerias and other casual restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat.

Chartres is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are a number of restaurants around town so it's easy to grab lunch during a day trip.

Is Piazza Armerina or Chartres Better for Nightlife?

Piazza Armerina
Chartres

Piazza Armerina is mediocre for nightlife and partying. However, Chartres is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Piazza Armerina While many tourists pass through town with the intent of visiting the Villa Romana del Casale, most don't linger long enough appreciate the town at night.

Chartres is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Piazza Armerina or Chartres Better for its Old Town?

Piazza Armerina
Chartres

Piazza Armerina is great for its old town. However, Chartres does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Piazza Armerina. The old town has a bit of authenticity that is missing from some of the more popular Sicilian cities. While it may feel a little worn to some people, those who like to get away from the souvenir shops will appreciate a visit.

Chartres does not have a historic old town.


Is Piazza Armerina or Chartres Better for Families?

Piazza Armerina
Chartres

Most people don't think of either Piazza Armerina or Chartres as a family destination.

Piazza Armerina is not the most family-friendly destination. Most people head to the town to explore the Villa Romana del Casale. The beauty and history may not thrill all kids, but if your kids enjoy a bit of history they will likely appreciate a visit. The town also has an Aragonese Castle that you can visit.

Chartres is not always a place people visit with their families. The main attraction in town is the cathedral, but the surrounding area is also filled with history. This may not keep your kids entertained for long, so you can also check out the Stained Glass Museum, La Tanière (a zoo), or one of the parks around town.

Is Piazza Armerina or Chartres Better for Couples?

Piazza Armerina
Chartres

Piazza Armerina and Chartres both notable destinations for a couple.

Piazza Armerina makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For history enthusiasts, this is a popular place to visit. Like most visitors, couples will appreciate a visit to the town's main attraction Villa Romana del Casale.

Chartres is a good town for couples to visit. With its cathedral and rich history, many couples enjoy exploring the town. It is filled with history and interesting sights.

Is Piazza Armerina or Chartres Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Piazza Armerina
Chartres

Chartres is a good destination for backpackers. However, Piazza Armerina is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Chartres. It's easy enough to visit as a day trip from Paris, so backpackers and other tourists typically allow themselves a few hours to explore.

Piazza Armerina is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Although it's a popular tourist destination, there are a limited number of hostels in town.


Is Piazza Armerina or Chartres Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Piazza Armerina
Chartres

Chartres is notable for its public transit. Also, Piazza Armerina is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Chartres has some very good public transit options. There are trains that leave Paris Montparnasse 1 Et 2 every half hour and travel to Chartres. The trip takes about 1 hour 15 minutes.

Piazza Armerina has some public transit options. You can reach the town by bus and once there it's possible to explore on foot.

Is Piazza Armerina or Chartres a more walkable city?

Piazza Armerina
Chartres

Piazza Armerina and Chartres both are superb when exploring on foot.

Piazza Armerina is a very walkable town. You can explore most of the old and new towns on foot.

Chartres is a very walkable destination. It's easy to see the sights around town on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Piazza Armerina Worth Visiting? and Is Chartres Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Chartres or Piazza Armerina?

How long in Piazza Armerina or Chartres?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Piazza Armerina or Chartres to fill your time. In our opinion, Piazza Armerina has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Piazza Armerina than Chartres. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chartres than Piazza Armerina 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 Chartres.


  • How many days in Piazza Armerina or Chartres? Ideal Length of Stay
    Piazza Armerina 1-2 
    Chartres 1-2

One day in Piazza Armerina or Chartres?

The town of Piazza Armerina offers museums and food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

The grand destination of Chartres offers food and museums. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.


A weekend in Piazza Armerina or Chartres?

Piazza Armerina is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Piazza Armerina, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

The town of Chartres offers museums and food. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in Piazza Armerina or Chartres?

Piazza Armerina is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Chartres is a great place to explore. This town offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Piazza Armerina or Chartres?

Piazza Armerina is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Chartres. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Italy, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in France, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Chartres or Piazza Armerina?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Piazza Armerina is €93, while the average daily cost in Chartres is €117. 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 Piazza Armerina and Chartres in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Piazza Armerina 56
    Chartres 59
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Piazza Armerina 112
    Chartres 118
Compare Hotels in Piazza Armerina and Chartres

Looking for a hotel in Piazza Armerina or Chartres? 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 Piazza Armerina


Hotels in Chartres


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: Piazza Armerina Hotel Prices and Chartres Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Piazza Armerina 4.29
    Chartres 26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Piazza Armerina

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Piazza Armerina:

  • From Catania: Return Transfer to Piazza Armerina & Agrigento: $106

Is it cheaper to fly into Piazza Armerina or Chartres?

Prices for flights to both Chartres and Piazza Armerina 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
    Piazza Armerina 33
    Chartres 39

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Piazza Armerina 4.29
    Chartres 22

Tours and Activities in Piazza Armerina

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Piazza Armerina are as follows:

  • From Catania: Agrigento-Piazza Armerina Audio-guided Tour: $128
  • Roman Villa del Casale Mosaics Tour: $241
  • Villa Romana del Casale Guided Tour: $42
  • Private Tour of Villa Romana del Casale & Valley of Temples: $225

Tours and Activities in Chartres

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

  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Piazza Armerina 13
    Chartres 12


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

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


Which is Bigger, Piazza Armerina or Chartres?

Chartres has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Piazza Armerina. When comparing the sizes of Piazza Armerina and Chartres, 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 Piazza Armerina or Chartres?

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 Piazza Armerina or Chartres in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Piazza Armerina as well as Chartres. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Piazza Armerina this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Chartres for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

Piazza Armerina is a little warmer than Chartres in the summer. The daily temperature in Piazza Armerina averages around 26°C (79°F) in July, and Chartres fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chartres. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Piazza Armerina this time of the year. In the summer, Piazza Armerina often gets more sunshine than Chartres. Piazza Armerina gets 325 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chartres receives 239 hours of full sun.

Piazza Armerina usually gets less rain in July than Chartres. Piazza Armerina gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Piazza Armerina 26°C (79°F) 
    Chartres 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Piazza Armerina or Chartres in the Autumn?

Both Chartres and Piazza Armerina are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Also, many visitors come to Chartres in the autumn for the small town atmosphere.

In the autumn, Piazza Armerina is a little warmer than Chartres. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Piazza Armerina in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Chartres averages at about 13°C (56°F).

Piazza Armerina usually receives more sunshine than Chartres during autumn. Piazza Armerina gets 189 hours of sunny skies, while Chartres receives 126 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Piazza Armerina usually receives more rain than Chartres. Piazza Armerina gets 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Piazza Armerina 19°C (67°F) 
    Chartres 13°C (56°F)

Should I visit Piazza Armerina or Chartres in the Winter?

Both Chartres and Piazza Armerina during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Piazza Armerina in the winter for the museums and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Chartres for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

Chartres can be very cold during winter. In January, Piazza Armerina is generally much warmer than Chartres. Daily temperatures in Piazza Armerina average around 10°C (51°F), and Chartres fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

In the winter, Piazza Armerina often gets more sunshine than Chartres. Piazza Armerina gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chartres receives 56 hours of full sun.

Piazza Armerina usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Chartres. Piazza Armerina gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Piazza Armerina 10°C (51°F) 
    Chartres 5°C (40°F)

Should I visit Piazza Armerina or Chartres in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Piazza Armerina and Chartres. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Chartres because of the small town charm.

Piazza Armerina is a little warmer than Chartres in the spring. The daily temperature in Piazza Armerina averages around 15°C (58°F) in April, and Chartres fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In Piazza Armerina, it's very sunny this time of the year. Piazza Armerina usually receives more sunshine than Chartres during spring. Piazza Armerina gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Chartres receives 173 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Piazza Armerina usually receives less rain than Chartres. Piazza Armerina gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Piazza Armerina 15°C (58°F) 
    Chartres 11°C (52°F)

Typical Weather for Chartres and Piazza Armerina

Piazza Armerina Chartres
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 5°C (40°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Feb 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (42°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 8°C (47°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 15°C (58°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 11°C (52°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 19°C (65°F) 23 mm (0.9 in) 15°C (59°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 26°C (79°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 20°C (68°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 26°C (79°F) 14 mm (0.5 in) 20°C (67°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 24°C (74°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 17°C (63°F) 55 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 75 mm (2.9 in) 13°C (56°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
Nov 15°C (59°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (47°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Dec 12°C (53°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 5°C (42°F) 51 mm (2 in)


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