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

Should you visit Southampton or Saint-Tropez?

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

Should I visit Southampton or Saint-Tropez? 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 waterfront, dynamic, and up-and-coming port city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Saint-Tropez

Saint-Tropez is a opulent, ritzy, and celebrity-filled resort town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Southampton and Saint-Tropez: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Saint-Tropez than Southampton, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Saint-Tropez is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Southampton is more popular for its museums. Saint-Tropez is more touristy than Southampton and is popular for its trendy beach clubs around the Bay of Pampelonne, as well as its popularity with celebrities and the extravagantly wealthy. Also, Saint-Tropez is famous for The Old Port. Southampton is well known for its popularity as a cruise ship port as well as its focus watersports.

The Old Port

How is Southampton different from Saint-Tropez?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Saint-Tropez 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 Saint-Tropez?

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

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.

Saint-Tropez does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Southampton and Saint-Tropez can be difficult as they are each notable in their own way.

Southampton has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Saint-Tropez area. 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 Southampton or Saint-Tropez Better for Nightlife?

Saint-Tropez is an amazing resort town to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Southampton is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its evening party 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Southampton. The nightlife scene is filled with restaurants, pubs, and bars as well as a few nightclubs mixed in.

Is Southampton or Saint-Tropez Better for Resorts?

Saint-Tropez is an amazing resort town to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Southampton 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.

Southampton is not a resort destination.

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

Saint-Tropez is an amazing resort town to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Southampton 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.

Southampton is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Southampton or Saint-Tropez Better for Beaches?

Saint-Tropez is a great resort town for the beache. However, Southampton 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.

Southampton is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Southampton or Saint-Tropez?

Saint-Tropez is an amazing resort 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, Saint-Tropez draws large crowds to its stores. 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 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 Saint-Tropez Better for Families?

Saint-Tropez is an amazing resort town to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Southampton is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its family-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.

Southampton is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Southampton or Saint-Tropez Better for Couples?

Saint-Tropez is an amazing resort town to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Southampton is not as popular, but is still a nice port city 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.

Southampton is a very popular place to visit for couples. Museums, parks, gardens, and chartered boats all offer a romantic experience for couples visiting the area.

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

Saint-Tropez is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Southampton is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Southampton is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

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

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.

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

Is Southampton or Saint-Tropez a more walkable city?

Saint-Tropez is an amazing resort town to visit 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.

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

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 Saint-Tropez Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Southampton or Saint-Tropez?

It's fun to spend time in either Southampton or Saint-Tropez. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Saint-Tropez 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 Saint-Tropez.

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

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

One day in Southampton or Saint-Tropez?

In Southampton, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this up-and-coming port city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this port city.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the ritzy resort town of Saint-Tropez. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Saint-Tropez?

Southampton 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the celebrity-filled destination of Saint-Tropez. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This resort 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 Saint-Tropez?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the up-and-coming destination of Southampton. 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.

The extravagant resort town of Saint-Tropez offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Saint-Tropez?

Southampton 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.

Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Saint-Tropez. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in France.

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

Which is Bigger, Southampton or Saint-Tropez?

Southampton has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Saint-Tropez. When comparing the sizes of Southampton and Saint-Tropez, 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 Saint-Tropez?

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 Saint-Tropez in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Southampton as well as Saint-Tropez. The summer months attract visitors to Southampton because of the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Saint-Tropez this time of year.

Southampton is cooler than Saint-Tropez in the summer. The daily temperature in Southampton averages around 18°C (64°F) in July, and Saint-Tropez fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

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

Southampton usually gets more rain in July than Saint-Tropez. Southampton gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Saint-Tropez receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Saint-Tropez and Southampton are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Southampton this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Saint-Tropez for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Southampton is cooler than Saint-Tropez. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Southampton in October average around 12°C (53°F), and Saint-Tropez averages at about 17°C (63°F).

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

It rains a lot this time of the year in Saint-Tropez. In October, Southampton usually receives less rain than Saint-Tropez. Southampton gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Saint-Tropez receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

Both Saint-Tropez and Southampton during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Southampton for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Saint-Tropez in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Southampton. In January, Southampton is generally much colder than Saint-Tropez. Daily temperatures in Southampton average around 4°C (40°F), and Saint-Tropez fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

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

Southampton usually gets less rain in January than Saint-Tropez. Southampton gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Saint-Tropez receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Southampton and Saint-Tropez. Many visitors come to Southampton in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Saint-Tropez for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Southampton is cooler than Saint-Tropez in the spring. The daily temperature in Southampton averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Saint-Tropez fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

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

In April, Southampton usually receives less rain than Saint-Tropez. Southampton gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Saint-Tropez receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Saint-Tropez and Southampton