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

Should you visit Saint-Tropez or Madrid?

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

Should I visit Saint-Tropez or Madrid? 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 nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Madrid

Madrid is a compact, friendly, and authentic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and museums.

Saint-Tropez and Madrid: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Madrid. Although Saint-Tropez and Madrid are popular destinations, Madrid has more sights and attractions for tourists. Madrid is very popular for its museums, food, music, and big city activities, while Saint-Tropez attracts visitors for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. 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. Madrid is famous for its art and architecture, its tapas and culinary scene, and its lively flamenco dancing. It is also well known for The Prado Museum.

How is Saint-Tropez different from Madrid?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Madrid is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Saint-Tropez does not have museums and landmarks.

Madrid offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a number of cultural sights in the city including Museo Nacional del Prado, the Royal Palace and Gardens, and Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía.

Saint-Tropez does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Madrid is an amazing city to visit for its restaurant scene. Also, Saint-Tropez is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Madrid is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The city has a mix of flavors that come from all of Spain. There are amazing markets where you can grab a meal or snack. There are also many high quality restaurants around town where you're guaranteed a good meal. Local favorites include roast suckling pig, Spanish omelette, and meat and chickpea stew.

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 Madrid Better for Nightlife?

Saint-Tropez is renowned for nightlife. Also, Madrid is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Madrid offers plenty to do in the evening. Many tourists and international students hang out in the Huertas area, while Malasaña has a bohemian, hipster vibe with small clubs that play indie music. Chueca is a fun area that's known for being gay-friendly with many good bars. Finally, you'll find that the area around Avenida de Brasil is where famous DJs often perform.

Is Saint-Tropez or Madrid Better for Music?

Madrid 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 Madrid Rock, jazz, and flamenco are all popular in the city. Some of the most well known music venues include Sala Caracol, Sala Clamores, and Costello Club.

Saint-Tropez is not a live music destination.

Is Saint-Tropez or Madrid Better for Resorts?

Saint-Tropez is renowned for its luxury resorts. However, Madrid 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.

Madrid is not a resort destination.

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

Saint-Tropez is renowned for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Madrid 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.

Madrid is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Saint-Tropez or Madrid Better for Beaches?

Saint-Tropez is a great resort town for its beaches. However, Madrid is not a beach destination.

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.

Madrid is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint-Tropez or Madrid?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Madrid 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 Madrid specifically to go shopping. Gran Vía is a main thoroughfare in Madrid that is also popular for shopping. Calle Fuencarral is where you'll find the fashion shops and Calle Preciados is a fun pedestrian area to explore.

Is Saint-Tropez or Madrid Better for Families?

Saint-Tropez is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Madrid is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-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.

Madrid is a very kid-friendly resort town. Kids love splashing around at Madrid Río, taking a ride on the cable car (Teleférico), and exploring the city's many parks and playgrounds. There's even a maze at Sabatini Gardens. Restaurants around the city are also very kid-friendly.

Is Saint-Tropez or Madrid Better for Couples?

Saint-Tropez is renowned for romance. Also, Madrid is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Madrid is a very popular place to visit for couples. Fun and romantic activities around town include taking a boat ride at Casa de Campo, riding a bike in one of the many parks, and enjoy dinner and show in the evening.

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

Madrid is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Saint-Tropez is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Madrid is a great city to visit for backpackers. The many hostels around town make it easy for backpackers to find affordable accommodation while also meeting other travelers.

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 Madrid Better for Students?

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

Many students frequent Madrid. With several great universities, this city is popular with international and study abroad students. The city also has a diverse population and an active nightlife that appeals to students.

Saint-Tropez is not popular with students.

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

Madrid is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. Also, Saint-Tropez is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Madrid is top-notch. The system includes the Madrid Metro, buses, and a light rail system.

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 Madrid a more walkable city?

Saint-Tropez and Madrid both are terrific when exploring on foot.

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

Madrid is a very easy resort town to get around on foot. Most tourists stay in the central part of Madrid where it's compact and relatively easy to walk to most tourist sights.

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

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

How long in Saint-Tropez or Madrid?

In either Saint-Tropez or Madrid, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Madrid than Saint-Tropez because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saint-Tropez, and 2-5 days is enough time in Madrid.

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

One day in Saint-Tropez or Madrid?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Saint-Tropez. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Each neighborhood in Madrid has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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 Madrid?

Saint-Tropez is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Madrid 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 Madrid?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saint-Tropez. Most people come for the beaches. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Each neighborhood in Madrid has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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 Madrid?

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the ritzy destination of Saint-Tropez. This resort town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Madrid 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 Contiki Tours to Spain, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain.

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

Which is Bigger, Saint-Tropez or Madrid?

Madrid has a larger population, and is about 530 times larger than the population of Saint-Tropez. When comparing the sizes of Saint-Tropez and Madrid, 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.