A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers The Hague vs. Nantes for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit The Hague or Nantes?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between The Hague and Nantes can help you decide which place is right for you.

The Hague

The Hague is a international, bustling, and diverse city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the live music, food, and shopping.

Nantes

Nantes is a welcoming, friendly, and historical city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

The Hague and Nantes: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less popular for students


Is there more to do in The Hague or Nantes?

You'll generally find more things to do in The Hague than Nantes. The Hague is bigger than Nantes, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. The Hague is better known for its music and big city activities, while Nantes is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Nantes is more touristy than The Hague and is known for its castles and historical landmarks, local wine, and beautiful parks and gardens. The Hague is well known for its large international population and its roll in international politics and diplomacy. Also, The Hague is famous for The Peace Palace.

How is The Hague different from Nantes?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Nantes and The Hague. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in The Hague or Nantes?

The Hague
Nantes

Nantes is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, The Hague does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Nantes specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is filled with historical monuments, particularly in the Bouffay District. Highlights include Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul, Château des Ducs de Bretagne, and the Musée d'Arts de Nantes.

The Hague does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in The Hague or Nantes? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

The Hague
Nantes

Nantes is an amazing city to visit for its restaurants. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Nantes has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The region lends itself to unique flavors with a great mix of seafood from the Atlantic, freshwater fish from the Loire, and dairy from the surrounding countryside. The region is also famous for its wine. Local dishes that you should try include Filet de Sandre au Beurre Blanc (fresh fish in butter sauce), Crepes Bretonnes (breakfast crepes), and Le Canard Nantais (duck with Muscadet wine).

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit The Hague. The city has a diverse population and the large number of ethnic restaurants reflects that.

Is The Hague or Nantes Better for Nightlife?

The Hague
Nantes

Both The Hague and Nantes have excellent vibes after the sun sets.

The Hague has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. Many of the city's restaurants turn into clubs at night. Head to The Grote Markt for some of the most energetic nightlife.

The people in Nantes know how to have a good time. The large student population heavily influences the nightlife scene. You'll find a young vibe with a lot of bars and clubs to choose from, particularly around Île de Nantes.

Is The Hague or Nantes Better for Music?

The Hague
Nantes

The Hague is a very popular place for its music scene. However, Nantes is not a live music destination.

It's worth checking out the music scene in The Hague while you're in town. There's an active music scene here and the city actually played an active role in the development and popularity of electronic music.

Nantes is not a live music destination.


Is The Hague or Nantes Better for its Old Town?

The Hague
Nantes

Nantes is very good for its historic old town. However, The Hague does not have a historic old town.

Nantes is a good destination for visiting its old town. The city's old town is in the Bouffay District and it is filled with half-timbered houses and a maze of streets and shops.

The Hague does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in The Hague or Nantes?

The Hague
Nantes

Shoppers can find a variety of excellent stores in both The Hague and Nantes.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting The Hague. There's a dynamic shopping scene with indoor malls, outdoor markets, and a number of neighborhoods that have shops that sell eclectic items.

Nantes is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are impressive shopping streets, boutique stores, and grand shopping malls. Make sure you check out Rue Crébillon, Passage Pommeraye, and the shops around the Bouffay District. Talensac Market is also a historical covered market that you can explore.

Is The Hague or Nantes Better for Families?

The Hague
Nantes

Nantes is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Nantes is a very family-friendly destination. It's filled with gardens, museums, and theme parks, making it a great combination of fascinating activities for adults and kids alike. Some of the top kid-friendly activities include a visit to Machine of the Isle of Nantes (both a theme park and a museum), seeing a show at Le Lieu Unique, or experiencing Naudières Park (a smaller theme park). Kids will also enjoy seeing Goulaine Castle or wandering around Jardin Extraordinaire or the Botanical Gardens.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in The Hague. This city has a bit more of a family-friendly vibe than nearby Amsterdam. Kids enjoy exploring by bike or heading to the Scheveningen Beach Resort.


Is The Hague or Nantes Better for Couples?

The Hague
Nantes

Nantes is an excellent place to visit for romance. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Nantes makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There is a mix of both natural and historical beauty. Couples can enjoy a nice meal, stroll through one of the many parks and gardens, or even spend the day at the spa.

The Hague makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can enjoy the diverse restaurants and the busting atmosphere that the city offers.

Is The Hague or Nantes Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

The Hague
Nantes

The Hague is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Nantes is lacking in good options for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit The Hague. While most backpackers head to the more popular city of Amsterdam, The Hague has a fun atmosphere with a diversity of activities and restaurants.

Nantes is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't as many hostels as you would expect in the area, so finding an affordable and social place to stay may be a bit challenging.

Is The Hague or Nantes Better for Students?

The Hague
Nantes

The Hague is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Nantes is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

The Hague is a great destination for students. This is a very popular study abroad destination so you'll find plenty of international students living here. It's an internationally oriented city so everyone feels right at home.

Nantes is popular with students. There's a decent sized student population and the city has a welcoming atmosphere. It's also easy to get around with public transportation.


Is The Hague or Nantes Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

The Hague
Nantes

Visitors will find excellent public transit in both The Hague and Nantes.

Public transit in The Hague is fairly effecient and thorough. There are bus and tram lines throughout the city.

Nantes has some very good public transit options. There are both trams and buses throughout the city that are operated by TAN (Transport de l'Agglomeration Nantaise).

Is The Hague or Nantes a more walkable city?

The Hague
Nantes

Nantes is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

Nantes is very walkable. The city is very walkable. Both locals and tourists alike choose to walk in Nantes.

The Hague is a somewhat walkable place. There are a number of walk tours through the city center.

For even more information, also check out Is The Hague Worth Visiting? and Is Nantes Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nantes or The Hague?

How long in The Hague or Nantes?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both The Hague and Nantes. In our opinion, Nantes has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Nantes than The Hague. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for The Hague, and 2-3 days is enough time in Nantes.

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

Couples should spend more time in Nantes than The Hague. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Nantes that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in The Hague than Nantes 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 The Hague.


  • How many days in The Hague or Nantes? Ideal Length of Stay
    The Hague 1-3 
    Nantes 2-3

One day in The Hague or Nantes?

The Hague is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Nantes. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A weekend in The Hague or Nantes?

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

You'll find museums and nightlife around the beautiful destination of Nantes. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in The Hague or Nantes?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in The Hague. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the friendly city of Nantes. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the food. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in The Hague or Nantes?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the global big city of The Hague. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Nantes is a popular choice for travelers. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Netherlands, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Netherlands, The Best 10-Day Tours in France, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Nantes or The Hague?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in The Hague is €178, while the average daily cost in Nantes is €108. 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 The Hague and Nantes in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    The Hague 104
    Nantes 60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    The Hague 208
    Nantes 120
Compare Hotels in The Hague and Nantes

Looking for a hotel in The Hague or Nantes? 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 The Hague


Hotels in Nantes


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: The Hague Hotel Prices and Nantes Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    The Hague 19
    Nantes 36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in The Hague

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

  • Utrecht: Train Transfer Utrecht from/to Den Haag: $16
  • Taxi Transfer from The Hague to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport: $126
  • Private Transfer from The Hague to Amsterdam: $137
  • Private Transfer from The Hague City to Schiphol Airport : $137
  • From One-Way Private Transfer to Schiphol Airport: $257
  • Eindhoven: Train Transfer Eindhoven from/to Den Haag: $28
  • Den Haag: Train Transfer Den Haag from/to Rotterdam: $8.23
  • Amsterdam: Train Transfer Schiphol Airport from/to Den Haag: $20
  • Amsterdam: Train Transfer Amsterdam from/to Den Haag: $17
  • Amsterdam: Private Transfer to/from The Hague: $278

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nantes

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

  • Private Transfer from Nantes Hotels to La Rochelle Cruise Port: $88
  • Private Transfer from Nantes Atlantique Airport NTE to Puy du Fou Park: $174
  • Private Transfer from Nantes Airport (NTE) to La Rochelle Port: $88
  • Private Transfer from Airports to Nantes: $33
  • Nantes to Nantes Airport (NTE) - Departure Private Transfer: $26
  • Nantes Private Transfer from Nantes city centre to Nantes Airport: $65
  • Nantes Private Transfer from Nantes Airport to City centre: $65
  • Nantes Airport (NTE) to Nantes hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $26
  • Nantes Airport (NTE) to Nantes - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $52

Is it cheaper to fly into The Hague or Nantes?

Prices for flights to both Nantes and The Hague 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
    The Hague 55
    Nantes 27

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in The Hague

For The Hague, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • WALKING DINNER DELFT | 3 courses incl. 3 drinks and a lot of fun: $87

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Nantes

For Nantes, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Nantes Traditional Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience : $104
  • All Inclusive Food Tour of Nantes Old Town with Local Guide: $145

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    The Hague 34
    Nantes 13

Tours and Activities in The Hague

For The Hague, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2 Hours Walking Tour in Delft: $3.27
  • 2 Hours Walking Tour in The Hague: $3.27
  • Amsterdam: The Hague, Delft and Rotterdam Private Day Tour: $535
  • Bicycle tour The Hague Highlights: $27
  • Boattour The Hague and Scheveningen: $187
  • Delft: Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
  • Den Haag: Murder Crime Game Self-Guided Interactive Tour: $74
  • Discover Delft with a self-guided Outside Escape city game tour!: $27
  • Discover The Hague's city center with an Outside Escape game tour: $27
  • Drive it yourself electric Dune & Summer Flower GPS audio tour: $97
  • Drive it yourself electric History and Castle GPS audio tour: $97
  • Drive it yourself electric Tulip and Flower Fields GPS audio tour: $139

Tours and Activities in Nantes

For Nantes, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Exploring London's Natural Marvels: Museum Adventure: $83
  • Guided treetop adventure course in the heart of Nantes: $31
  • Half-Day Tour in Nantes: $291
  • Nantes : Must-see Attractions Walking Tour: $75
  • Nantes : Private Walking Tour With A Local : $51
  • Nantes Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: $52
  • Nantes Private Guided Walking Tour: $307
  • Nantes Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.54
  • Nantes Traditional Food Group Walking Tour: $102
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Panoramic Tour by Electric Bike: $59

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    The Hague 30
    Nantes 6.43

Sample the Local Flavors in The Hague

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in The Hague:

  • The Hague Pub Trail: Pub crawl with interactive online game: $12

Sample the Local Flavors in Nantes

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

  • Château du Bois-Huaut: Cellar Tour and Wine Tasting Class: $35


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is The Hague Expensive? and Is Nantes Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, The Hague or Nantes?

The Hague has a larger population, and is about 71% larger than the population of Nantes. When comparing the sizes of The Hague and Nantes, 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 The Hague or Nantes?

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 The Hague or Nantes in the Summer?

Both Nantes and The Hague are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to The Hague this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Nantes for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, The Hague is generally cooler than Nantes. Daily temperatures in The Hague average around 17°C (62°F), and Nantes fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

It's quite sunny in Nantes. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in The Hague. The Hague usually receives less sunshine than Nantes during summer. The Hague gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Nantes receives 267 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, The Hague usually receives more rain than Nantes. The Hague gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Nantes receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    The Hague 17°C (62°F) 
    Nantes 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit The Hague or Nantes in the Autumn?

Both Nantes and The Hague during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to The Hague for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Nantes in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

The Hague is cooler than Nantes in the autumn. The daily temperature in The Hague averages around 11°C (51°F) in October, and Nantes fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In the autumn, The Hague often gets less sunshine than Nantes. The Hague gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nantes receives 141 hours of full sun.

The Hague usually gets less rain in October than Nantes. The Hague gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Nantes receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    The Hague 11°C (51°F) 
    Nantes 13°C (56°F)

Should I visit The Hague or Nantes in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both The Hague and Nantes. Many visitors come to The Hague in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Nantes for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

The Hague can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, The Hague is much colder than Nantes. Typically, the winter temperatures in The Hague in January average around 2°C (36°F), and Nantes averages at about 6°C (42°F).

The Hague usually receives less sunshine than Nantes during winter. The Hague gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Nantes receives 72 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, The Hague usually receives less rain than Nantes. The Hague gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Nantes receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    The Hague 2°C (36°F) 
    Nantes 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit The Hague or Nantes in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to The Hague as well as Nantes. Most visitors come to The Hague for the activities around the city during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Nantes because of the natural beauty.

In April, The Hague is generally cooler than Nantes. Daily temperatures in The Hague average around 8°C (46°F), and Nantes fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the spring, The Hague often gets less sunshine than Nantes. The Hague gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nantes receives 187 hours of full sun.

The Hague usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Nantes. The Hague gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Nantes receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    The Hague 8°C (46°F) 
    Nantes 11°C (51°F)

Typical Weather for Nantes and The Hague

The Hague Nantes
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 6°C (42°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Feb 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (44°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 8°C (47°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in) 11°C (51°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 14°C (57°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 17°C (63°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in) 19°C (67°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 13°C (56°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 9°C (48°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Dec 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 6°C (43°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)