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

Should you visit Southampton or Aix-en-Provence?

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

Should I visit Southampton or Aix-en-Provence? 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.

Southampton

Southampton is a dynamic, up-and-coming, and waterfront port city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a relaxing, historic, and vibrant town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and food.

Southampton and Aix-en-Provence: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly


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

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Aix-en-Provence than Southampton. While Southampton is larger than Aix-en-Provence, Aix-en-Provence has more sights and attractions for tourists. Aix-en-Provence is more popular for its food, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Southampton is known for its nightlife. Aix-en-Provence is more touristy than Southampton and is popular for its Provençal cuisine made with local produce, its many art galleries, and its beautiful fountains and square. It is also home to . Southampton is popular for its popularity as a cruise ship port as well as its focus watersports.

How is Southampton 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 Southampton. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Southampton
Aix-en-Provence

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Southampton and Aix-en-Provence.

Southampton offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Museums are a favorite activity in town. There are a surprising number of options including SeaCity Museum, the Tudor House and Garden, and Southampton City Art Gallery.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Aix-en-Provence. 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 Southampton or Aix-en-Provence? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Southampton
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is an amazing town to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Southampton is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

For foodies, Aix-en-Provence is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Southampton area. While most people used to pass through Southampton on their way somewhere else, the city now offers a dynamic food scene with local restaurants mixed with international options and even fine dining.

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

Southampton
Aix-en-Provence

Southampton is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Aix-en-Provence is not particularly known for nightlife.

Southampton has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene is filled with restaurants, pubs, and bars as well as a few nightclubs mixed in.

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 the Shopping Better in Southampton or Aix-en-Provence?

Southampton
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is an amazing town to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Southampton is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Aix-en-Provence draws large crowds to its stores. 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.

Many visitors go to Southampton to go shopping. The city has two indoor shopping centers, as well as a range of markets and several independent vendors.


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

Southampton
Aix-en-Provence

Southampton is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Aix-en-Provence is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Southampton. This cruise port city offers a handful of fascinating activities for kids including learning about the Mayflower and the Titanic. There are also many parks and gardens as well as the Mayflower Theater, which regularly has kid-family productions.

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 Southampton or Aix-en-Provence Better for Couples?

Southampton
Aix-en-Provence

With fun activities for couples, both Southampton and Aix-en-Provence make for a very good place to visit.

Southampton is a great port city if you're traveling as a couple. Museums, parks, gardens, and chartered boats all offer a romantic experience for couples visiting the area.

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

Southampton
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Southampton is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Aix-en-Provence. There are a couple of hostels and cheap hotels that are good options for backpackers.

Southampton is not a backpacker-friendly destination.


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

Southampton
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a great town for its student-friendly activities. However, Southampton is not popular with students.

Aix-en-Provence is a very popular town for students and younger travelers. It's a university town with a lively but laid-back atmosphere. It's also a popular study abroad destination for American university students.

Southampton is not popular with students.

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

Southampton
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Southampton is not known for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is generally limited in Southampton. There are buses around town that make some areas accessible even without a car.

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

Southampton
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a great town for its high level of walkability. Also, Southampton is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its ease of walking around.

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

Southampton is a somewhat walkable port city. It's possible to walk in parts of Southampton but in general it's easier to take a taxi.


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

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

How long in Southampton or Aix-en-Provence?

It's fun to spend time in either Southampton or Aix-en-Provence. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Aix-en-Provence due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Southampton, and 2-4 days is enough time in Aix-en-Provence.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Southampton or Aix-en-Provence? Ideal Length of Stay
    Southampton 1-3 
    Aix-en-Provence 2-4

One day in Southampton or Aix-en-Provence?

The waterfront destination of Southampton offers nightlife and food. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the laid-back town of Aix-en-Provence. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Southampton or Aix-en-Provence?

The port city of Southampton offers food and shopping. 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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the laid-back destination of Aix-en-Provence. This town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Southampton or Aix-en-Provence?

Southampton is a great place to explore. This port city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

The historic town of Aix-en-Provence offers museums and food. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.


A week in Southampton or Aix-en-Provence?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Southampton. 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.

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Aix-en-Provence. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh, The Best 10-Day Tours from London, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in France, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Aix-en-Provence or Southampton?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Southampton is £132, while the average daily cost in Aix-en-Provence is £118. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Southampton and Aix-en-Provence in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Southampton £85
    Aix-en-Provence £69
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Southampton £170
    Aix-en-Provence £138
Compare Hotels in Southampton and Aix-en-Provence

Looking for a hotel in Southampton or Aix-en-Provence? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Southampton


Hotels in Aix-en-Provence


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Southampton Hotel Prices and Aix-en-Provence Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Southampton £8.70
    Aix-en-Provence £28
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Southampton

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Southampton:


  • Ferry to Isle of Wight
    £16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Southampton

Also for Southampton, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • "Private Group Transfer: Southampton Port to London.": $290
  • "Private Stress-Free Transfer: Southampton to Heathrow.": $109
  • "Private Transfer: Heathrow to Southampton Port.": $110
  • From Cruise Terminal to London transfer: $650
  • Heathrow Airport to Southampton Port - Private Transfer: $300
  • Heathrow Airport to Southampton Ports - Private Transfer: $275
  • London to Southampton Cruise Terminal Private Transfer: $651
  • London to Southampton Port | Private Transfer: $300
  • London to Southern England Cruise Terminals Transfers: $119
  • London: City Center and Heathrow to Southampton Transfer: $131
  • Private Minicab Transfer from Southampton Port to London: $287
  • Private Port Arrival Transfer Southampton Cruise Terminals to Gatwick Airport: $226

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Aix-en-Provence

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Aix-en-Provence:

  • Aix en Provence: Guided Driving Tour with Hotel Transfer: $1,390
  • Marseille Airport Transfer From/To Cassis Van 7 pax: $269
  • Aix en Provence Transfer to Marseille Cruise port: $118
  • Marseille Cruise Port Transfer to Aix en Provence: $118
  • Aix TGV transfer to Marseille Port or Airport or Aix city: $93

Is it cheaper to fly into Southampton or Aix-en-Provence?

Prices for flights to both Aix-en-Provence and Southampton change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Southampton £37
    Aix-en-Provence £28
Typical Food Prices in Southampton

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Southampton:


  • Breakfast
    £4.00

Typical Food Prices in Aix-en-Provence

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Aix-en-Provence:


  • Dinner for 2
    £40

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Aix-en-Provence

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Aix-en-Provence.

  • NO DIET CLUB - Best food tour in Aix en Provence (En / Fr): $62
  • Food Tour: $102
  • Aix-en-Provence Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $104

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Southampton £19
    Aix-en-Provence £19

Tours and Activities in Southampton

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Southampton.

  • Secrets of the Titanic Guided Walking Tour: $20
  • Private Southampton Walking Tour: $22
  • Isle of Wight Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (7 Day Pass) UK: $32
  • New Forest Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (7 Day Pass) UK: $32
  • Full Day Private Shore Tour in Winchester from Southampton Port: $112
  • Walk the Secrets of the Titanic: Private Tour: $114
  • Shuttle Service Southampton Cruise Terminals to Heathrow Airport and London: $153
  • Private cruise arrival from Southampton to London or airport: $159
  • Full Day Private Shore Tour in Windsor from Southampton Port: $160
  • London to Southampton and Portsmouth Cruise: $191
  • Oxford and Blenheim Palace Day Tour from Southampton: $191
  • Private Day Tour To Bath And The Cotswolds: $406

Tours and Activities in Aix-en-Provence

Here are a few actual costs in Aix-en-Provence for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Aix en Provence City Tour with Wine and Cheese - From Aix: $82
  • 2-Hour Foodie Tour with 10 Tastings in Aix-en-Provence: $76
  • 2H: Wine-Tour in Provence: $274
  • 4-Hour Lavender Fields Tour in Valensole from Aix-en-Provence: $87
  • Aix en Provence City Tour with Wine and Cheese: $80
  • Aix-en-Provence Walking Food and Culture Tour - 3 hour private tour: $131
  • A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Arles & Camargue National Park Private Tour: $1,016
  • Arles, Baux, & Saint-Rémy-de-Provence Tour: $1,016
  • Avignon Tour & Chateauneuf-du-Pape Tasting: $1,048
  • E-Bike Tour of Mount Sainte-Victoire: $73
  • Guided Foodie Tour with Tastings: $70

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Southampton £21
    Aix-en-Provence £12

Sample the Local Flavors in Southampton

Also in Southampton, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Southampton Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $47

Sample the Local Flavors in Aix-en-Provence

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Aix-en-Provence:

  • Half day Wine Tour in Côtes de Provence Sainte-Victoire from Aix en Provence: $93
  • Half Day Wine Tour in Coteaux d'Aix: $96
  • Half day Wine Tour in Côteaux Aix from Aix en Provence: $98
  • Half day Wine Tour in Bandol & Cassis from Aix en Provence: $104
  • From Wine Tour in Cezanne Countryside: $106
  • Provence small group half-day wine tour from Aix: $107
  • Cotes de Provence Wine Tour from Aix-en-Provence: $108
  • Aix en Provence: Delicious Food and Wine Tour: $117
  • Full Day Wine Tour in Luberon with Tasting: $143
  • Full day Wine Tour around Luberon from Aix en Provence: $151
  • Provence Day Trip with Cassis Village Boat Ride and Local Wine Tasting from Aix: $164
  • From Provence Region Tour with Wine Tasting: $166


When comparing the travel costs between Southampton and Aix-en-Provence, we can see that Southampton 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 Southampton Expensive? and Is Aix-en-Provence Expensive?.


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

Southampton has a larger population, and is about 68% larger than the population of Aix-en-Provence. When comparing the sizes of Southampton 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 Southampton 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 Southampton or Aix-en-Provence in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Southampton as well as Aix-en-Provence. Many travelers come to Southampton for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Aix-en-Provence in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Southampton is cooler than Aix-en-Provence. Typically, the summer temperatures in Southampton in July average around 18°C (64°F), and Aix-en-Provence averages at about 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Aix-en-Provence. In the summer, Southampton often gets less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence. Southampton gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aix-en-Provence receives 366 hours of full sun.

Southampton usually gets more rain in July than Aix-en-Provence. Southampton gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Southampton 18°C (64°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 24°C (75°F)

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

Both Aix-en-Provence and Southampton are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Southampton in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Aix-en-Provence for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Southampton is generally cooler than Aix-en-Provence. Daily temperatures in Southampton average around 12°C (53°F), and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

It's quite sunny in Aix-en-Provence. Southampton usually receives less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence during autumn. Southampton gets 107 hours of sunny skies, while Aix-en-Provence receives 205 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Southampton usually receives less rain than Aix-en-Provence. Southampton gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Southampton 12°C (53°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 16°C (61°F)

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

Both Aix-en-Provence and Southampton during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Southampton for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Aix-en-Provence because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Southampton can be very cold during winter. Southampton is much colder than Aix-en-Provence in the winter. The daily temperature in Southampton averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Southampton often gets less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence. Southampton gets 52 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aix-en-Provence receives 150 hours of full sun.

Southampton usually gets more rain in January than Aix-en-Provence. Southampton gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Southampton 4°C (40°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 7°C (44°F)

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Southampton and Aix-en-Provence. The spring months attract visitors to Southampton because of the natural beauty. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Aix-en-Provence this time of year.

In the spring, Southampton is cooler than Aix-en-Provence. Typically, the spring temperatures in Southampton in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Aix-en-Provence averages at about 13°C (56°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Aix-en-Provence this time of the year. Southampton usually receives less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence during spring. Southampton gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Aix-en-Provence receives 245 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Southampton usually receives around the same amount of rain as Aix-en-Provence. Southampton gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Southampton 9°C (48°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Aix-en-Provence and Southampton

Southampton Aix-en-Provence
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 52 mm (2 in) 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 8°C (46°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (50°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 13°C (56°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in) 17°C (63°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 51 mm (2 in) 21°C (69°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 24°C (75°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in) 23°C (74°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in) 20°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 16°C (61°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 11°C (51°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Dec 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 7°C (45°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)


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