A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Saint-Tropez vs. Barcelona for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Saint-Tropez or Barcelona?

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

Should I visit Saint-Tropez or Barcelona? 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.

Saint-Tropez

Saint-Tropez is a glamourous, opulent, and ritzy resort town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Barcelona

Barcelona is a youthful, colorful, and laid-back city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Saint-Tropez and Barcelona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Saint-Tropez or Barcelona?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Barcelona. Although Saint-Tropez and Barcelona are popular destinations, Barcelona has more sights and attractions for tourists. Barcelona is very popular for its museums, food, music, historical sights, and big city activities, while Saint-Tropez attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Barcelona is more touristy than Saint-Tropez and is known for its landmarks designed by Antoni Gaudí, its wild nightlife, and its urban beaches. It is also well known for Basilica Sagrada Familia. Saint-Tropez is famous for its trendy beach clubs around the Bay of Pampelonne, as well as its popularity with celebrities and the extravagantly wealthy.

How is Saint-Tropez different from Barcelona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint-Tropez or Barcelona?

Barcelona is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Saint-Tropez does not have museums and landmarks.

Barcelona offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Architecture and history all contribute to the city's impressive sights and museums. Famous landmarks include the Basílica de la Sagrada Família, Casa Milà, and the Palace of Catalan Music. In addition to Casa Milà, there are several other landmarks that are designed by Gaudi. You can expect a crowd outside any of his creations.

Saint-Tropez does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Saint-Tropez or Barcelona? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Barcelona is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Saint-Tropez is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Barcelona. With easy access to fresh produce, there are many food markets around town. You'll also find great fresh local dishes at the many restaurants. While some restaurants are more touristy, particularly along Las Ramblas, there are also many local options that offer higher quality dishes. Make sure you try the paella, croquettes, and jamon iberico. Many visitors enjoy taking a cooking class while they're in town as well.

Saint-Tropez is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The food is all about the local flavors. You'll find plenty of local seafood as well as local organic meats, fruits, vegetables, olive oil, garlic, and truffles. Cheese is a common ingredient as well. There are many different soups and stews, and bouillabaisse is a common fish soup found in the restaurants around town. Daube is another popular stew that is made with beef. Ratatouille is a vegetable casserole that has made a name for itself both inside and outside of France. And, of course, you have to try the local salads and pastries. Because it's such a touristy area, there are many restaurants geared specifically to the tourists, many of which are overpriced.

Is Saint-Tropez or Barcelona Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Saint-Tropez or Barcelona has a better nightlife scene.

Saint-Tropez has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. It is a place to see and be seen, so if you're looking for A-list celebrities, glamourous yacht parties, and ritzy dance clubs, then this is your place. While the nightlife scene is filled with extravagance, there are still laid back clubs where you can sip a cocktail in style. The best season to come and party is during the summer months, but you'll still find plenty to do throughout the year.

Barcelona is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The city offers an amazing nightlife at a much more affordable price than many places in Europe. There are beach parties, boat parties, and bars that stay packed late into the night. The city also hosts many street fiestas and music festivals.

Is Saint-Tropez or Barcelona Better for Music?

Barcelona is an amazing city to visit for its live music scene. However, Saint-Tropez is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Barcelona Popular music venues include Tablao de Carmen, Razzmatazz, and Jamboree.

Saint-Tropez is not a live music destination.

Is Saint-Tropez or Barcelona Better for Resorts?

Saint-Tropez is renowned for its resorts. However, Barcelona is not a resort destination.

Saint-Tropez is a world class resort vacation destination. Luxury and extravagance is what this resort town is all about. If you have the money to spend, you'll have no trouble finding a glamourous villa or luxury hotel where you can relax, party, or soak up the French Riviera sun.

Barcelona is not a resort destination.

Is Saint-Tropez or Barcelona Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Saint-Tropez is renowned for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Barcelona is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Saint-Tropez is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. The Gulf of Saint Tropez is one of the best places to snorkel and scuba dive along the French Riviera. There are wreck dives including the most famous, The Rubis, a submarine that is surrounded by marine life. Although you're not allowed to enter the vessel, there is still plenty to see. There are also plenty of dive spots that feature rock formations, schools of fish, and lobsters.

Barcelona is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Saint-Tropez or Barcelona Better for Beaches?

Saint-Tropez is a well-known place for its beaches. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for the beache.

The beaches at Saint-Tropez attract visitors from all over. The beaches are frequented by celebrities, so you'll find plenty of glitz and glamour by the water. For some of the best beaches, you'll want to head a little out of town. The most famous beach in the area is Pampelonne Beach which is popular with Hollywood celebrities during the summer months. Bouillabaisse Beach is the place to go if you want to look at the yachts, but for a more natural setting head to Graniers Beach.

Barcelona offers a nice beach destination. The city features long sandy beaches where you can soak up the Mediterranean sun right in the heart of town. Many of the beaches can get crowded during the warmer months, but if you're looking for a party, then this is the place. These are urban beaches, so don't expect the pristine coastal setting that you might find in a more remote areas. Popular beaches include Bogatell Beach, Barceloneta Beach, and Nova Icària.

Is Saint-Tropez or Barcelona Better for its Old Town?

Barcelona is a great destination for its old town. However, Saint-Tropez does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Barcelona. Dating back 2,000 years the Gothic Quarter remains a hub of life and activity. It's fun to explore the wandering streets or people watch in one of the plazas. There are also many fascinating boutique shops and restaurants. Many people consider the Gothic Quarter to be one of the best parts of Barcelona.

Saint-Tropez does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint-Tropez or Barcelona?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Barcelona and Saint-Tropez.

The abundance of shops in Saint-Tropez make it a world-class shopping destination. Surrounded by luxury, shopping is a must in this glamourous resort town. There are international luxury brands as well as local designer boutiques. Whether you're looking for yachting clothes, cigars, jewelry, or perfume, this is one of the best shopping destinations along the Cote d'Azur. Art is a particularly popular item to purchase while you're in town.

Many people travel to Barcelona specifically to go shopping. Head to Portal De L'Angel, Rambla de Catalunya, or Passeig De Gracia for some of the city's best shopping districts.

Is Saint-Tropez or Barcelona Better for Families?

Saint-Tropez is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Saint-Tropez is an extremely popular resort town to visit for families. With great beaches, several amusement parks, waterparks, and even Marineland, there are an endless supply of activities for kids. There's also a zoo and nature reserve for wildlife enthusiasts. For adventure lovers, there are a number of different watersports to try and if the weather isn't cooperating, there are a few good museums and other indoor activities as well.

Barcelona is a family-friendly resort town. The city has a bit of a party vibe, but there are also kid-friendly activities everyone. With a number of museums, an aquarium, and lots of parks, the whole family can stay entertained. There's also a playground with a great view right by Sagrada Familia. Also make sure you check out the Magic Fountain Show near Plaça d'Espanya, wander through the aquarium, or sample some chocolate at the Chocolate Museum.

Is Saint-Tropez or Barcelona Better for Couples?

Saint-Tropez is renowned for romance. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Saint-Tropez is a great resort town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Whether you're honeymooning or taking a short getaway to the French Riviera, this is a great option for couples. You can take a stroll at sunset, relax on one of the beautiful beaches, dine on local seafood, and soak up the rich local culture. The romance and beauty of this French Riviera city make it a world class romantic destination.

Barcelona makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's an active city with a party atmosphere, so young couples will enjoy their time here. Couples can take a sunset cruise or enjoy a Flamenco show. There are also many great viewpoints around town.

Is Saint-Tropez or Barcelona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Barcelona is an amazing city to visit for backpackers. Also, Saint-Tropez is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Barcelona. There are many hostels around town, each with its own personality. Many of the hostels also organize activities or dinners for guests so it's easy to meet other travelers. Backpackers will also appreciate the young vibe and late night party venues that keep the city fun and entertaining.

Saint-Tropez is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. For many backpackers it may seem cost prohibitive to visit the French Riviera, but for those with the money, it is well worth the splurge. You can save some money by staying outside of town or finding a vacation rental where you can cook meals. There are also hostels and rooms in local homes that come at a more reasonable price.

Is Saint-Tropez or Barcelona Better for Students?

Barcelona is an amazing city to visit for students. However, Saint-Tropez is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Barcelona. This is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find international students from around the world. It's a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. It's also a lively city, but do expect the price tag to be higher than other Spanish cities.

Saint-Tropez is not popular with students.

Is Saint-Tropez or Barcelona Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Barcelona is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Saint-Tropez is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Barcelona can get you around easily. There's a metro, bus, and tram system that navigates the city. It's a huge city, and while many places are accessible by public transit, sometimes the trip can be hot and frustrating.

While Saint-Tropez offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a bus system that connects many parts of the area.

Is Saint-Tropez or Barcelona a more walkable city?

Saint-Tropez is renowned for its walkability. However, Barcelona is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Saint-Tropez on foot. It's easy to explore many places on foot, passing by beautiful beaches, stunning views, impressive yachts, and glamourous villas.

Barcelona is generally not a very walkable resort town. The city is more spread out than many other major European cities and you'll find wide roads with lots of car traffic. There are some neighborhoods and plazas that are fun to explore on foot and the city has designed "superilles," which are areas where car traffic has been directed around pedestrian-friendly plazas so visitors can explore, relax, or play.

For even more information, also check out Is Saint-Tropez Worth Visiting? and Is Barcelona Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Barcelona or Saint-Tropez?

How long in Saint-Tropez or Barcelona?

Both Saint-Tropez and Barcelona have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Barcelona than in Saint-Tropez. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saint-Tropez, and 3-7 days is enough time in Barcelona.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Barcelona than Saint-Tropez 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 Barcelona.

One day in Saint-Tropez or Barcelona?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the resort town of Saint-Tropez. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Each neighborhood in Barcelona has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Saint-Tropez or Barcelona?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the opulent destination of Saint-Tropez. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this resort town has to offer. This resort town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Barcelona is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Saint-Tropez or Barcelona?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the glamourous resort town of Saint-Tropez. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Each neighborhood in Barcelona has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Saint-Tropez or Barcelona?

Saint-Tropez is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Barcelona is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in France, The Best Contiki Tours to Spain, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain.

When comparing the travel costs between Saint-Tropez and Barcelona, we can see that Barcelona 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 Saint-Tropez Expensive? and Is Barcelona Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Saint-Tropez or Barcelona?

Barcelona has a larger population, and is about 270 times larger than the population of Saint-Tropez. When comparing the sizes of Saint-Tropez and Barcelona, 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 Saint-Tropez or Barcelona?

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 Saint-Tropez or Barcelona in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint-Tropez and Barcelona. Many visitors come to Saint-Tropez in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Barcelona for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Saint-Tropez is generally around the same temperature as Barcelona. Daily temperatures in Saint-Tropez average around 23°C (73°F), and Barcelona fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Barcelona this time of the year. In Saint-Tropez, it's very sunny this time of the year. Saint-Tropez usually receives more sunshine than Barcelona during summer. Saint-Tropez gets 366 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 308 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Saint-Tropez usually receives less rain than Barcelona. Saint-Tropez gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Saint-Tropez or Barcelona in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Saint-Tropez as well as Barcelona. Most visitors come to Saint-Tropez for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Barcelona because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Saint-Tropez is around the same temperature as Barcelona in the autumn. The daily temperature in Saint-Tropez averages around 17°C (63°F) in October, and Barcelona fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint-Tropez this time of the year. In the autumn, Saint-Tropez often gets more sunshine than Barcelona. Saint-Tropez gets 205 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 181 hours of full sun.

Saint-Tropez receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Saint-Tropez usually gets more rain in October than Barcelona. Saint-Tropez gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saint-Tropez or Barcelona in the Winter?

Both Barcelona and Saint-Tropez are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Saint-Tropez because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Barcelona this time of year.

In the winter, Saint-Tropez is around the same temperature as Barcelona. Typically, the winter temperatures in Saint-Tropez in January average around 9°C (48°F), and Barcelona averages at about 9°C (48°F).

Saint-Tropez usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Barcelona during winter. Saint-Tropez gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Barcelona receives 146 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Saint-Tropez usually receives more rain than Barcelona. Saint-Tropez gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Saint-Tropez or Barcelona in the Spring?

Both Barcelona and Saint-Tropez during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Saint-Tropez this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Barcelona for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Saint-Tropez is generally around the same temperature as Barcelona. Daily temperatures in Saint-Tropez average around 13°C (56°F), and Barcelona fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In Barcelona, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Saint-Tropez. In the spring, Saint-Tropez often gets more sunshine than Barcelona. Saint-Tropez gets 245 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Barcelona receives 204 hours of full sun.

Saint-Tropez usually gets more rain in April than Barcelona. Saint-Tropez gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Barcelona receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Barcelona and Saint-Tropez