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

Should you visit Taormina or Aix-en-Provence?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Taormina and Aix-en-Provence can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Taormina

Taormina is a historic, beautiful, and exclusive town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and food.

Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a relaxing, historic, and vibrant town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping.

Taormina and Aix-en-Provence: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • 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 Taormina or Aix-en-Provence?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Taormina. Although Taormina and Aix-en-Provence are popular destinations, Taormina has more sights and attractions for tourists. Taormina is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, and small town charm, while Aix-en-Provence attracts visitors for its food and shopping. Taormina is more touristy than Aix-en-Provence and is popular for its long history as a seaside resort town with luxury accommodation and beautiful views. It is also well known for The Greek Theater. Aix-en-Provence is famous for its Provençal cuisine made with local produce, its many art galleries, and its beautiful fountains and square.

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

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

Taormina
Aix-en-Provence

You'll find a number of nice museums and attractions in both Aix-en-Provence and Taormina.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Taormina. The main landmark in town is the Greek Theater which dates back to the 3rd century BC. Also visit Madonna della Rocca as well as Castello di Taormina, which is perched above the sea.

Aix-en-Provence is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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 Taormina or Aix-en-Provence? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Taormina
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is very popular for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Taormina is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Aix-en-Provence have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Taormina makes for a great culinary experience. The local dishes draw on traditional Italian flavors such as pasta, tomato sauce, and vegetables, but they're also heavily influenced by the island's many historical invaders. You'll find a variety of ingredients in recipes including red chilies, tuna, swordfish, sardines, pine nuts, capers, and olives.

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

Taormina
Aix-en-Provence

Taormina is well known for its evening party scene. However, Aix-en-Provence is not particularly known for nightlife.

Taormina is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The town has a bit of an exclusive vibe and that's felt in the nightlife scene as well. There are lounges and exclusive clubs that serve fine wine and cocktails. You'll also find some late night dance clubs around town.

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 Taormina or Aix-en-Provence Better for Resorts?

Taormina
Aix-en-Provence

Taormina is well known for its resorts. However, Aix-en-Provence is not a resort destination.

Taormina is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are a number of high end resorts and hotels in and near town that have pools and five star facilities.

Aix-en-Provence is not a resort destination.


Is Taormina or Aix-en-Provence Better for Beaches?

Taormina
Aix-en-Provence

Taormina is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Aix-en-Provence is not a beach destination.

Taormina has a beach worth visiting. The easiest beaches to access from town are Mazzaro Beach and Isola Bella Beach. The beaches are near hotels and there are restaurants as well as beach umbrellas and chairs that you can rent.

Aix-en-Provence is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Taormina or Aix-en-Provence?

Taormina
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is very popular for its shopping areas. Also, Taormina is not as popular, but is still a nice town for shopping.

Many people travel to Aix-en-Provence specifically to go shopping. 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.

Taormina is a great destination for shopping. It's a fashion-conscious town and you'll find boutiques and shops that carry high end Italian brands. There are also shops that sell local pottery and other items.

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

Taormina
Aix-en-Provence

Neither Taormina nor Aix-en-Provence are considered to be the most family-friendly destination.

For families, Taormina is not always the best place to visit. Kids may not appreciate everything that the adults enjoy about this town, but they will likely have fun taking a ride on the cable car and visiting the Greek Theater. There are also wonderful desserts that kids will enjoy.

Aix-en-Provence is not the most family-friendly destination. Many kids enjoy checking out the town's many fountains or taking a bike for a ride outside of town.


Is Taormina or Aix-en-Provence Better for Couples?

Taormina
Aix-en-Provence

Both Taormina and Aix-en-Provence are high quality destinations for a couple's getaway.

Taormina is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. It's a truly beautiful town with impressive views and a great atmosphere. It makes a wonderful stop off for couples or honeymooners who want to soak up the region's beauty.

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

Taormina
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a town with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Taormina is not known for backpackers.

Aix-en-Provence is a good town to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels and cheap hotels that are good options for backpackers.

Taormina is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. There aren't many hostels around town and you won't find a large backpacker crowd here. The town has the feel of an exclusive resort community with high end resorts more common than anything else.

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

Taormina
Aix-en-Provence

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

Students come from all over to stay in Aix-en-Provence. It's a university town with a lively but laid-back atmosphere. It's also a popular study abroad destination for American university students.

Taormina is not popular with students.


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

Taormina
Aix-en-Provence

Taormina and Aix-en-Provence both offer nice public transit to get you around.

While Taormina offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are minibuses that travel to the more far-reaching parts of the town.

Aix-en-Provence has a few public transit options. For the places you can't reach on foot, there is a bus network.

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

Taormina
Aix-en-Provence

Taormina and Aix-en-Provence are high quality when it comes to walkability.

Taormina is a very walkable destination. Walking is one of the best ways to explore the town.

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

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

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

How long in Taormina or Aix-en-Provence?

It's fun to spend time in either Taormina or Aix-en-Provence. In our opinion, Aix-en-Provence has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Aix-en-Provence than Taormina. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Aix-en-Provence than Taormina 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 Taormina or Aix-en-Provence? Ideal Length of Stay
    Taormina 2-4 
    Aix-en-Provence 2-4

One day in Taormina or Aix-en-Provence?

Taormina is a small town with plenty to do. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The beautiful town of Aix-en-Provence offers food and shopping. 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.


A weekend in Taormina or Aix-en-Provence?

Taormina might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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.

Aix-en-Provence is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Aix-en-Provence, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Taormina or Aix-en-Provence?

Taormina is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This town offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Aix-en-Provence 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.

A week in Taormina or Aix-en-Provence?

Since Taormina is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

Aix-en-Provence is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, The Best Walking Tours in Italy, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in France, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in France.


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

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Taormina is €108, while the average daily cost in Aix-en-Provence is €138. 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 Taormina and Aix-en-Provence in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Taormina 70
    Aix-en-Provence 81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Taormina 140
    Aix-en-Provence 162
Compare Hotels in Taormina and Aix-en-Provence

Looking for a hotel in Taormina 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 Taormina


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: Taormina Hotel Prices and Aix-en-Provence Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Taormina 4.29
    Aix-en-Provence 33

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Taormina

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

  • Sicily Catania Airport: Bus Transfer to and from Taormina: $7.49
  • Roundtrip Transfer from Messina: $41

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 Taormina or Aix-en-Provence?

Prices for flights to both Aix-en-Provence and Taormina 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
    Taormina 33
    Aix-en-Provence 33

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
    47

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.
    Taormina 11
    Aix-en-Provence 22

Tours and Activities in Taormina

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

  • From Catania: Guided Tour of Mount Etna and Taormina: $57
  • From Catania: Guided Tour of Taormina and Castelmola: $106
  • Tour di Taormina, Savoca e Forza D' Agro': $139
  • Tour Messina Taormina Castelmola: $150
  • Taormina private tour: $160
  • Sicily: Best of Taormina and Castelmola Private Tour: $213
  • Taormina. Highlights Tour with Isolabella and Castelmola: $267
  • Taormina & Castelmola: Shore tour from Messina cruise port: $428
  • Taormina Walking Tour & Ancient theather Private or shared: $588
  • 5 Hours Private Tour of Taormina from Messina: $606
  • Tour da Messina a Taormina, Castelmola, Isola Bella: $695
  • From Catania or Agrigento and Piazza Armerina Tour: $743

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
    Taormina 8.57
    Aix-en-Provence 14

Sample the Local Flavors in Taormina

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Taormina:

  • Mt Etna Private guided walking Tour with Wine Tasting: $181
  • Catania: Mt. Etna Private Tour with Food and Wine Tasting: $299

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Taormina Expensive? and Is Aix-en-Provence Expensive?.


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

Aix-en-Provence has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Taormina. When comparing the sizes of Taormina 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 Taormina 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 Taormina or Aix-en-Provence in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Taormina as well as Aix-en-Provence. Most visitors come to Taormina for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Aix-en-Provence because of the family-friendly experiences.

Taormina is a little warmer than Aix-en-Provence in the summer. The daily temperature in Taormina averages around 27°C (80°F) in July, and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Aix-en-Provence. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Taormina this time of the year. In the summer, Taormina often gets less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence. Taormina gets 332 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aix-en-Provence receives 366 hours of full sun.

Taormina usually gets less rain in July than Aix-en-Provence. Taormina gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Taormina 27°C (80°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 24°C (75°F)

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

Both Aix-en-Provence and Taormina are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Taormina because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Aix-en-Provence this time of year.

In the autumn, Taormina is a little warmer than Aix-en-Provence. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Taormina in October average around 21°C (69°F), and Aix-en-Provence averages at about 16°C (61°F).

It's quite sunny in Aix-en-Provence. Taormina usually receives less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence during autumn. Taormina gets 189 hours of sunny skies, while Aix-en-Provence receives 205 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Taormina. In October, Taormina usually receives more rain than Aix-en-Provence. Taormina gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Taormina 21°C (69°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 16°C (61°F)

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

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

In January, Taormina is generally much warmer than Aix-en-Provence. Daily temperatures in Taormina average around 13°C (55°F), and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Taormina often gets less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence. Taormina gets 115 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aix-en-Provence receives 150 hours of full sun.

Taormina usually gets more rain in January than Aix-en-Provence. Taormina gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Taormina 13°C (55°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 7°C (44°F)

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Taormina and Aix-en-Provence. Many travelers come to Taormina for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Aix-en-Provence in the spring for the natural beauty.

Taormina is a little warmer than Aix-en-Provence in the spring. The daily temperature in Taormina averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Aix-en-Provence this time of the year. In Taormina, it's very sunny this time of the year. Taormina usually receives less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence during spring. Taormina gets 207 hours of sunny skies, while Aix-en-Provence receives 245 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Taormina usually receives less rain than Aix-en-Provence. Taormina gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Taormina 16°C (60°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Aix-en-Provence and Taormina

Taormina Aix-en-Provence
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 13°C (55°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 13°C (55°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 8°C (46°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 14°C (57°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (50°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 13°C (56°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 20°C (67°F) 18 mm (0.7 in) 17°C (63°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Jun 24°C (74°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 21°C (69°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 27°C (80°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 24°C (75°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 9 mm (0.4 in) 23°C (74°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Sep 25°C (76°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 20°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 21°C (69°F) 128 mm (5 in) 16°C (61°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 17°C (62°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 11°C (51°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Dec 14°C (57°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 7°C (45°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)


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