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

Should you visit Saint-Tropez or Pamplona?

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

Should I visit Saint-Tropez or Pamplona? 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 extravagant, luxurious, and glamourous resort town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Pamplona

Pamplona is a historic, elegant, and laid-back city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Saint-Tropez and Pamplona: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Pamplona than Saint-Tropez, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Pamplona is better known for its museums, food, historical sights, hiking, and big city activities, while Saint-Tropez is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty. Saint-Tropez is well known for its trendy beach clubs around the Bay of Pampelonne, as well as its popularity with celebrities and the extravagantly wealthy. Pamplona is well known for being the home of the Running of the Bulls Festival. Also, Pamplona is famous for The Running of the Bulls Festival.

How is Saint-Tropez different from Pamplona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Pamplona offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Although most people visit in July for the Running of the Bulls, throughout the year there are some interesting museums and sights around town. You can check out the Cathedral of Pamplona, the Museo de Navarra, and the main plaza in town, Plaza del Castillo.

Saint-Tropez does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Pamplona 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 Pamplona. Local cuisine includes lots of fresh vegetables like mushrooms, artichokes, asparagus, and onion. You'll find many unique dishes in the area, and you shouldn't leave without trying the txistorra (sausage), revuelto de setas (eggs and mushrooms), and ajoarriero (cod).

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 Pamplona Better for Nightlife?

Saint-Tropez is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Saint-Tropez is a must-see party destination. 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.

Pamplona has a large number of nightlife venues. There's a good sized university population that keeps the nightlife active around town. The Old Quarter is likely where you'll find the most going on, particularly around Calle San Nicolás and Calle Estafeta. Earlier in the evening the crowd is pretty young, but as the evening passes you'll find the crowd matures a bit.

Is Saint-Tropez or Pamplona Better for Resorts?

Saint-Tropez is terrific for its resorts. However, Pamplona is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Saint-Tropez is a great choice. 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.

Pamplona is not a resort destination.

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

Saint-Tropez is terrific for its diving and snorkeling. However, Pamplona is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Saint-Tropez a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. 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.

Pamplona is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Saint-Tropez or Pamplona Better for Beaches?

Saint-Tropez is a well-known place for the beache. However, Pamplona is not a beach destination.

Saint-Tropez is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Pamplona is not a beach destination.

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

Pamplona is a popular place for its old town. However, Saint-Tropez does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Pamplona to see the old town. You'll find elegant buildings and grand plazas around the Old Quarter.

Saint-Tropez does not have a historic old town.

Is Saint-Tropez or Pamplona Better for Hiking?

Pamplona is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Saint-Tropez is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Pamplona. It's a stop off on the famed Camino de Santiago, so if you want to walk part of the route, this is a nice place to explore.

Saint-Tropez is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint-Tropez or Pamplona?

Saint-Tropez is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

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.

Pamplona has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find some good markets around town. It's also fun to shop for local handicrafts or souvenirs to remember your trip by.

Is Saint-Tropez or Pamplona Better for Families?

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

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Saint-Tropez is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Pamplona is a family-friendly resort town. The city is very green, with many parks and gardens where kids can stretch their legs. There's also the Pamplona Planetarium and several museums that relate to environmental education.

Is Saint-Tropez or Pamplona Better for Couples?

Saint-Tropez is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Saint-Tropez makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Pamplona is a good resort town for couples to visit. Although it's most known for the Running of the Bulls in July, the city also has some interesting sights at other times of the year. Couples can walk around the city walls, or explore the many parks in town. There are also some interesting museums.

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

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

Pamplona is a great city to visit for backpackers. Backpackers are drawn to this city during July for the Running of the Bulls festival. It's also a stop along the Camino de Santiago, which brings in a young, budget-oriented crowd.

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 Pamplona Better for Students?

Pamplona is a popular place for students. However, Saint-Tropez is not popular with students.

Pamplona is popular with students. This is a quiet city, which appeals to some students. The laid back atmosphere makes it a nice place to relax and learn.

Saint-Tropez is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Saint-Tropez and Pamplona.

You'll find some public transit in Saint-Tropez, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a bus system that connects many parts of the area.

While Pamplona offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a comprehensive bus system around town.

Is Saint-Tropez or Pamplona a more walkable city?

Saint-Tropez is terrific for its high level of walkability. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

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.

Pamplona is a very walkable destination. It's a stop off on the Camino de Santiago, so many people arrive on foot. It's also an easy city to explore on foot.

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

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

How long in Saint-Tropez or Pamplona?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Saint-Tropez or Pamplona to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Saint-Tropez than Pamplona because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saint-Tropez, and 1-2 days is enough time in Pamplona.

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

One day in Saint-Tropez or Pamplona?

The beautiful resort town of Saint-Tropez offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Pamplona, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this laid-back city offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

A weekend in Saint-Tropez or Pamplona?

Saint-Tropez is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this resort town makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Saint-Tropez, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Pamplona is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Pamplona?

Saint-Tropez 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the laid-back destination of Pamplona. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Pamplona?

Saint-Tropez is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This resort town offers something for everyone.

Pamplona is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 3-Week Tours in Spain, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Spain.

When comparing the travel costs between Saint-Tropez and Pamplona, 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 Pamplona Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Saint-Tropez or Pamplona?

Pamplona has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Saint-Tropez. When comparing the sizes of Saint-Tropez and Pamplona, 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 Pamplona?

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 Pamplona in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint-Tropez and Pamplona. The summer months attract visitors to Saint-Tropez because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Pamplona this time of year.

Saint-Tropez is a little warmer than Pamplona in the summer. The daily temperature in Saint-Tropez averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Pamplona fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Pamplona this time of the year. In Saint-Tropez, it's very sunny this time of the year. Saint-Tropez usually receives more sunshine than Pamplona during summer. Saint-Tropez gets 366 hours of sunny skies, while Pamplona receives 209 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Saint-Tropez usually receives less rain than Pamplona. Saint-Tropez gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Saint-Tropez as well as Pamplona. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Saint-Tropez this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Pamplona for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Saint-Tropez is around the same temperature as Pamplona. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Saint-Tropez in October average around 17°C (63°F), and Pamplona averages at about 16°C (60°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 Pamplona. Saint-Tropez gets 205 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pamplona receives 144 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Pamplona. Saint-Tropez receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Saint-Tropez usually gets less rain in October than Pamplona. Saint-Tropez gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Pamplona and Saint-Tropez are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Saint-Tropez for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Pamplona in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Saint-Tropez is generally around the same temperature as Pamplona. Daily temperatures in Saint-Tropez average around 9°C (48°F), and Pamplona fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Saint-Tropez usually receives more sunshine than Pamplona during winter. Saint-Tropez gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Pamplona receives 85 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pamplona. In January, Saint-Tropez usually receives less rain than Pamplona. Saint-Tropez gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

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

Both Pamplona and Saint-Tropez during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Saint-Tropez in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Pamplona for the activities around the city during these months.

Saint-Tropez is around the same temperature as Pamplona in the spring. The daily temperature in Saint-Tropez averages around 13°C (56°F) in April, and Pamplona fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

It's quite sunny in Saint-Tropez. In the spring, Saint-Tropez often gets more sunshine than Pamplona. Saint-Tropez gets 245 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pamplona receives 141 hours of full sun.

Pamplona gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Saint-Tropez usually gets less rain in April than Pamplona. Saint-Tropez gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Pamplona and Saint-Tropez