A Travel Price Comparison for France Saint-Tropez vs. Caen for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Saint-Tropez or Caen?

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

Should I visit Saint-Tropez or Caen? 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 celebrity-filled, extravagant, and luxurious resort town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Caen

Caen is a park-filled, important, and historic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the food, museums, and nightlife.

Saint-Tropez and Caen: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Saint-Tropez. Although Saint-Tropez and Caen are popular destinations, Saint-Tropez has more sights and attractions for tourists. Saint-Tropez is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Caen attracts visitors for its museums, food, and big city activities. Saint-Tropez is more touristy than Caen and is popular for its trendy beach clubs around the Bay of Pampelonne, as well as its popularity with celebrities and the extravagantly wealthy. It is also well known for The Old Port. Caen is famous for its role in World War II and its memorials and historical buildings.

The Old Port

How is Saint-Tropez different from Caen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Caen offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are many monuments around town commemorating the city's long history. You'll want to see Château de Caen, Pegasus Bridge, Mémorial de Caen, Musée de Normandie, and Musée des beaux-arts de Caen.

Saint-Tropez does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Caen 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 Caen. There's a market that's at its best on Sundays where you'll find fresh produce and other local ingredients. There are also Michelin starred restaurants, seafood restaurants, and other traditional dishes. Head to the Vaugueux Quarter for traditional dishes.

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 Caen Better for Nightlife?

Saint-Tropez is renowned for nightlife. Also, Caen is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Saint-Tropez is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

Caen has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene stays active thanks to the 30,000 students living in town. Head to the Rue Ecuyère for a pub crawl or hit up any of the other bars around town.

Is Saint-Tropez or Caen Better for Resorts?

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

Vacationers flock to Saint-Tropez for its luxury resorts. 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.

Caen is not a resort destination.

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

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

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Saint-Tropez. 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.

Caen is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Saint-Tropez or Caen Better for Beaches?

Saint-Tropez is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Caen is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Saint-Tropez for it's beautiful beaches. 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.

Caen is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint-Tropez or Caen?

Saint-Tropez is renowned for shopping. However, Caen is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Saint-Tropez. 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.

Caen is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Saint-Tropez or Caen Better for Families?

Saint-Tropez is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Caen is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Saint-Tropez is very family-friendly. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Caen. There are museums, parks, monasteries, and castles that kids and adults alike with enjoy visiting.

Is Saint-Tropez or Caen Better for Couples?

Saint-Tropez is renowned for romance. Also, Caen is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Saint-Tropez is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Caen makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples that are fascinated by history will enjoy a visit to this town in Normandy. There are also abbeys, castles and parks.

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

Saint-Tropez and Caen are nice places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Saint-Tropez. 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.

Caen is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. You'll find more apartments and bed and breakfasts than hostels in town, but backpackers still make their way here.

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

Caen 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 Caen can get you around easily. There are buses and trams that travel throughout the city.

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 Caen a more walkable city?

Saint-Tropez is renowned for its walkability. Also, Caen is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

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

Caen is a somewhat walkable place. The city center is best explored on foot.

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

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

How long in Saint-Tropez or Caen?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Saint-Tropez and Caen. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Saint-Tropez than in Caen. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saint-Tropez, and 2-3 days is enough time in Caen.

Families should spend more time in Saint-Tropez than Caen. 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 Caen. 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 Saint-Tropez than Caen 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 Saint-Tropez.

One day in Saint-Tropez or Caen?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Saint-Tropez. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Caen, many people enjoy the food and museums that this historic city offers. 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 Caen?

Saint-Tropez is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Caen is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Saint-Tropez or Caen?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the celebrity-filled destination of Saint-Tropez. This resort town offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find nightlife and food around the important destination of Caen. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Saint-Tropez or Caen?

The glamourous resort town of Saint-Tropez offers nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Caen is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. 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 Luxury Tours to France, and The Best Budget Tours to France.

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

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 Caen Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Saint-Tropez or Caen?

Caen has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Saint-Tropez. When comparing the sizes of Saint-Tropez and Caen, 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 Caen?

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 Saint-Tropez or Caen in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Saint-Tropez as well as Caen. Most visitors come to Saint-Tropez for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Caen because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Saint-Tropez is generally a little warmer than Caen. Daily temperatures in Saint-Tropez average around 23°C (73°F), and Caen fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Caen. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint-Tropez this time of the year. In the summer, Saint-Tropez often gets more sunshine than Caen. Saint-Tropez gets 366 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Caen receives 227 hours of full sun.

Saint-Tropez usually gets less rain in July than Caen. Saint-Tropez gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Caen receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Caen and Saint-Tropez are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Saint-Tropez because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions are the main draw to Caen this time of year.

Saint-Tropez is a little warmer than Caen in the autumn. The daily temperature in Saint-Tropez averages around 17°C (63°F) in October, and Caen fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saint-Tropez. Saint-Tropez usually receives more sunshine than Caen during autumn. Saint-Tropez gets 205 hours of sunny skies, while Caen receives 128 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Saint-Tropez. In October, Saint-Tropez usually receives more rain than Caen. Saint-Tropez gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Caen receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

Both Caen and Saint-Tropez during the winter are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Saint-Tropez this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Caen for the museums and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Caen. In the winter, Saint-Tropez is much warmer than Caen. Typically, the winter temperatures in Saint-Tropez in January average around 9°C (48°F), and Caen averages at about 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Saint-Tropez often gets more sunshine than Caen. Saint-Tropez gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Caen receives 70 hours of full sun.

Saint-Tropez usually gets more rain in January than Caen. Saint-Tropez gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Caen receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint-Tropez and Caen. Many travelers come to Saint-Tropez for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Caen in the spring for the activities around the city.

In April, Saint-Tropez is generally a little warmer than Caen. Daily temperatures in Saint-Tropez average around 13°C (56°F), and Caen fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

In Saint-Tropez, it's very sunny this time of the year. Saint-Tropez usually receives more sunshine than Caen during spring. Saint-Tropez gets 245 hours of sunny skies, while Caen receives 171 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Saint-Tropez usually receives more rain than Caen. Saint-Tropez gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Caen receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Caen and Saint-Tropez