A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Porto vs. Aix-en-Provence for Food, Backpackers, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Porto or Aix-en-Provence?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Porto and Aix-en-Provence can help you decide which place is right for you.

Porto

Porto is a cosmopolitan, dynamic, and historic port city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a relaxing, historic, and vibrant town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Porto and Aix-en-Provence: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Porto or Aix-en-Provence?

You'll generally find more things to do in Porto than Aix-en-Provence. Porto is bigger than Aix-en-Provence, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Porto is better known for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and big city activities, while Aix-en-Provence is more popular for its shopping. Porto is more touristy than Aix-en-Provence and is popular for its authentic old town and the local port wine. Also, Porto is famous for Cais da Ribeira. Aix-en-Provence is well known for its Provençal cuisine made with local produce, its many art galleries, and its beautiful fountains and square.

How is Porto different from Aix-en-Provence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Aix-en-Provence and Porto. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Porto or Aix-en-Provence?

Porto is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Aix-en-Provence is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Porto can be an interesting and educational experience. With such a long history, there are many landmarks and sights in the city. Popular attractions include the Clérigos Tower, Palácio da Bolsa, and Igreja de São Francisco.

Aix-en-Provence is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. In addition to its many squares and fountains, there is also Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur, Musée Granet, and Musée des Tapisseries.

Is the Food Better in Porto or Aix-en-Provence? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Porto and Aix-en-Provence offer terrific local cuisine and restaurants.

Porto has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The area's cuisine combines the ocean setting with the agriculture of the surrounding area, so you'll enjoy both seafood dishes as well as fresh meats and vegetables. The area is also famous for its Port wines and red wines. There are plenty of cellar tours as well was waterfront seafood restaurants to choose from.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Aix-en-Provence is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The range of restaurants includes everything from modern and trendy to traditional and casual. The town is surrounded by a region that is known for its local produce. There are also many markets worth checking out in town.

Is Porto or Aix-en-Provence Better for Nightlife?

Porto is well known for its evening party scene. However, Aix-en-Provence is not particularly known for nightlife.

Porto is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. This city comes to life in the evening, particularly on weekends when locals and tourists alike flock to the many bars, restaurants, and nightclubs.

Aix-en-Provence doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The nightlife scene that does exist is mostly influenced by the town's large student population.

Is Porto or Aix-en-Provence Better for its Old Town?

Porto is well known for its historic old town charm. However, Aix-en-Provence does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Porto to see the historical old town. Known as Porto Ribeira, the city's historic district is the most visited part of the town. It begins on the banks of the River Douro and climbs into the hills behind it.

Aix-en-Provence does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Porto or Aix-en-Provence?

Aix-en-Provence is very popular for shopping. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Aix-en-Provence. It has some of the best shopping in France outside of Paris. There are many shopping streets where you can pick up trendy fashions or boutique local finds. Head to Rue Marius Reynard, Les Allées Provençales, or Rue Clemenceau for some of the best shopping.

Porto offers some nice shopping areas. The city has both your standard shopping mall stores as well as local vendors and boutique shops.

Is Porto or Aix-en-Provence Better for Families?

Porto is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Aix-en-Provence is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Porto is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has several cool museums including the interactive museum - The World of Discoveries. There are also parks, playgrounds, zoos, and aquariums that you can explore. For families that enjoy being outside, this is a great city. Kids will enjoy spotting street art, riding the funicular, and taking a cellar tour. If the kids need a break from the city, head to the beach for the day.

For families, Aix-en-Provence is not always the best place to visit. Many kids enjoy checking out the town's many fountains or taking a bike for a ride outside of town.

Is Porto or Aix-en-Provence Better for Couples?

Both Porto and Aix-en-Provence are excellent destinations to visit as a couple.

Porto is a great port city if you're traveling as a couple. You can visit the palaces, enjoy shopping, or dine in a nice Portuguese restaurant. Take a cellar tour and sample port then catch a ride on the funicular. This city has plenty for couples to do on a romantic getaway.

Aix-en-Provence is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's among the most charming towns in southern France and couples will enjoy the romantic buildings, beautiful fountains, and relaxing countryside. Whether you're on a honeymoon or a couple's getaway, this is a great town.

Is Porto or Aix-en-Provence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Porto is terrific for backpackers. Also, Aix-en-Provence is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Porto is a very popular port city to visit for backpackers. By combining world-class activities with affordability, this city has become a popular stop off for backpackers in the area.

Aix-en-Provence is a good port city to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels and cheap hotels that are good options for backpackers.

Is Porto or Aix-en-Provence Better for Students?

For students, both Porto and Aix-en-Provence are excellent places to visit.

Porto is very popular with students. The city has a number of good research programs and study abroad opportunities that attract international students from around the world.

Aix-en-Provence is a great port city to visit as a student. It's a university town with a lively but laid-back atmosphere. It's also a popular study abroad destination for American university students.

Is Porto or Aix-en-Provence Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Porto is well known for its public transit. Also, Aix-en-Provence is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Porto can get you to most places easily. There is a metro system as well as a bus system. While the metro system does have six lines, most stations aren't close to the tourist attractions, so it likely won't be that helpful to visitors.

While Aix-en-Provence offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. For the places you can't reach on foot, there is a bus network.

Is Porto or Aix-en-Provence a more walkable city?

Porto and Aix-en-Provence are excellent when it comes to walkability.

Porto is very walkable. The city center is very compact with most of the sights within a short walk of each other. The area is also very hilly, so getting from place to place can require a bit of effort.

Aix-en-Provence is a very walkable port city. It's walkable, particularly in the heart of the city, so it's fun to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Porto Worth Visiting? and Is Aix-en-Provence Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Aix-en-Provence or Porto?

How long in Porto or Aix-en-Provence?

It's fun to spend time in either Porto or Aix-en-Provence. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Porto due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Porto, and 2-4 days is enough time in Aix-en-Provence.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Porto than Aix-en-Provence 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 Porto.

One day in Porto or Aix-en-Provence?

Porto is a big city with plenty to do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Aix-en-Provence, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this historic destination offers. This town 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.

A weekend in Porto or Aix-en-Provence?

Porto is a big city with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aix-en-Provence. 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 Porto or Aix-en-Provence?

Porto is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. This port city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Aix-en-Provence is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Aix-en-Provence. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Porto or Aix-en-Provence?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Porto. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the laid-back destination of Aix-en-Provence. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Portugal, The Best 10-Day Tours in Portugal, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in France, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in France.

When comparing the travel costs between Porto and Aix-en-Provence, we can see that Aix-en-Provence is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Porto Expensive? and Is Aix-en-Provence Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Porto or Aix-en-Provence?

Porto has a larger population, and is about 70% larger than the population of Aix-en-Provence. When comparing the sizes of Porto and Aix-en-Provence, 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 Porto or Aix-en-Provence?

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 Porto or Aix-en-Provence in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Porto as well as Aix-en-Provence. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Porto this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Aix-en-Provence for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Porto is generally cooler than Aix-en-Provence. Daily temperatures in Porto average around 21°C (69°F), and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Aix-en-Provence. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Porto this time of the year. In the summer, Porto often gets less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence. Porto gets 308 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aix-en-Provence receives 366 hours of full sun.

Porto usually gets more rain in July than Aix-en-Provence. Porto gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Porto or Aix-en-Provence in the Autumn?

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

Porto is around the same temperature as Aix-en-Provence in the autumn. The daily temperature in Porto averages around 17°C (62°F) in October, and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

It's quite sunny in Aix-en-Provence. Porto usually receives less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence during autumn. Porto gets 184 hours of sunny skies, while Aix-en-Provence receives 205 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Porto. In October, Porto usually receives more rain than Aix-en-Provence. Porto gets 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Porto or Aix-en-Provence in the Winter?

Both Aix-en-Provence and Porto during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Porto in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Aix-en-Provence for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Porto is a little warmer than Aix-en-Provence. Typically, the winter temperatures in Porto in January average around 10°C (50°F), and Aix-en-Provence averages at about 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Porto often gets less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence. Porto gets 124 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aix-en-Provence receives 150 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Porto. Porto usually gets more rain in January than Aix-en-Provence. Porto gets 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Porto or Aix-en-Provence in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Porto and Aix-en-Provence. Most visitors come to Porto for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Aix-en-Provence because of the natural beauty.

In April, Porto is generally around the same temperature as Aix-en-Provence. Daily temperatures in Porto average around 14°C (56°F), and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Aix-en-Provence this time of the year. In Porto, it's very sunny this time of the year. Porto usually receives less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence during spring. Porto gets 217 hours of sunny skies, while Aix-en-Provence receives 245 hours of full sun in the spring.

Porto gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Porto usually receives more rain than Aix-en-Provence. Porto gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Aix-en-Provence and Porto