A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Thiva (Thebes) vs. Arles for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Thiva (Thebes) or Arles?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Thiva (Thebes) and Arles 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.

Thiva (Thebes)

Thiva (Thebes) is a vibrant, historic, and authentic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Arles

Arles is a compact, quaint, and historic town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Thiva (Thebes) and Arles: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Thiva (Thebes) or Arles?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Thiva (Thebes). Although Thiva (Thebes) and Arles are both popular with visitors, Thiva (Thebes) has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Thiva (Thebes) is more popular for its big city activities, while Arles is known for its museums, food, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Thiva (Thebes) is popular for its standing as one of the oldest cities in the world. It is also home to The Archeological Museum. Arles is popular for its Roman history and its influence over Vincent van Gogh.

How is Thiva (Thebes) different from Arles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Arles and Thiva (Thebes). Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Arles?

Thiva (Thebes)
Arles

Arles is very popular for its museums and landmarks. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Arles are among the most recognizable in the world. It's a small town but it's filled with Roman ruins and remarkable landmarks. Popular sights include L'Amphithéâtre Romain, Les Alyscamps, Cloître Saint-Trophime, and Théâtre Antique.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Thiva (Thebes). The city is filled with archeological museums and sights that reflect its long-running history as one of the oldest, continuously inhabited cities in the world.


Is the Food Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Arles? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Thiva (Thebes)
Arles

Arles is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Arles. The cuisine is heavily influenced by the region's local agriculture. Popular dishes include agriade (beef stew), tellines soup, and fougasse (a local bread).

Thiva (Thebes) is becoming an appealing option for foodies. It's a large city with restaurants that cater to locals and visitors alike. You can expect high quality ingredients at a fraction of the price that you'll find in more touristy areas.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Arles Better for Nightlife?

Thiva (Thebes)
Arles

It's hard to distinguish whether Thiva (Thebes) or Arles has a better nightlife scene.

Thiva (Thebes) has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city is filled with lively cafes, bars, and pubs that spill out onto the city's vibrant squares.

If you're looking for night time activities Arles has a few options to choose from. There are countless bars and pubs where you can enjoy a cold drink and a relaxing night out.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Arles Better for its Old Town?

Thiva (Thebes)
Arles

Arles is very popular for its old town. However, Thiva (Thebes) does not have a historic old town.

Arles has a world-famous historical area. The large old town is filled with Roman ruins and historic sights. There are narrow streets and many interesting places to explore.

Thiva (Thebes) does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Arles?

Thiva (Thebes)
Arles

Shopping is a popular activity in both Arles and Thiva (Thebes).

Thiva (Thebes) offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find all of the normal retail options around town. Many are in shopping centers and malls.

Arles has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are many boutiques that are filled with local art, crafts, and merchandise.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Arles Better for Families?

Thiva (Thebes)
Arles

Thiva (Thebes) is very good for its family-friendly activities. However, Arles is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Thiva (Thebes). Kids who are interested in history will appreciate the many archeological ruins and museums in the city.

For families, Arles is not always the best place to visit. Filled with Roman ruins and beautiful art, this is a great town, but can make for a long day for younger kids.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Arles Better for Couples?

Thiva (Thebes)
Arles

Arles is a great destination for its romantic activities. However, Thiva (Thebes) is a city with minimal options for couples.

Couples visit Arles frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy history, roman ruins, and beautiful art will appreciate a weekend getaway to this town.

Thiva (Thebes) is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's often overlooked as a honeymoon destination in Greece but the history of this long-running city is unique. Today it's a large city but you can still catch glimpses of its past.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or Arles Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Thiva (Thebes)
Arles

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Thiva (Thebes) and Arles.

You'll find some public transit in Thiva (Thebes), but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are local buses in the area.

While Arles offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are shuttle buses that run between the city center and the train station, which is less than a kilometer out of town.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Arles a more walkable city?

Thiva (Thebes)
Arles

Arles is a great destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Arles is a very walkable town. It's a historic walled city that is very walkable.

Thiva (Thebes) is a somewhat walkable city. Some areas are more walkable than others.

For even more information, also check out Is Thiva (Thebes) Worth Visiting? and Is Arles Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Arles or Thiva (Thebes)?

How long in Thiva (Thebes) or Arles?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Thiva (Thebes) or Arles to fill your time. In our opinion, Arles has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Arles than Thiva (Thebes). However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Couples should spend more time in Arles than Thiva (Thebes). You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Arles that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Arles than Thiva (Thebes) 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 Arles.


  • How many days in Thiva (Thebes) or Arles? Ideal Length of Stay
    Thiva (Thebes) 1-2 
    Arles 1-2

One day in Thiva (Thebes) or Arles?

In Thiva (Thebes), many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this authentic destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Arles, you'll find museums and nightlife. Visiting the old town is also a must. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.


A weekend in Thiva (Thebes) or Arles?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Thiva (Thebes). For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Arles is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Thiva (Thebes) or Arles?

Thiva (Thebes) is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Thiva (Thebes). Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Arles. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. It offers something for everyone. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Thiva (Thebes) or Arles?

You'll find food and shopping around the historic destination of Thiva (Thebes). Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the town of Arles. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best Contiki Tours to France, and The Best G Adventures Tours to France.


Which place is cheaper, Arles or Thiva (Thebes)?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Thiva (Thebes) is €127, while the average daily cost in Arles is €142. 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 Thiva (Thebes) and Arles in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Thiva (Thebes) 61
    Arles 71
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Thiva (Thebes) 122
    Arles 142
Compare Hotels in Thiva (Thebes) and Arles

Looking for a hotel in Thiva (Thebes) or Arles? 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 Thiva (Thebes)


Hotels in Arles


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: Arles Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Thiva (Thebes) 37
    Arles 23

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Arles

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Arles:

  • Arles to Marseille Airport (MRS) - Departure Private Transfer: $117

Is it cheaper to fly into Thiva (Thebes) or Arles?

Prices for flights to both Arles and Thiva (Thebes) 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
    Thiva (Thebes) 41
    Arles 52

Typical Food Prices in Arles

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Arles:


  • Cooked Clams
    4.50
  • Ice Cream
    1.00

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Thiva (Thebes) 26
    Arles 31

Typical Entertainment Prices in Arles

Here are a few typical costs in Arles for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Castle Entrance Fee
    5.50

Tours and Activities in Arles

Here are a few actual costs in Arles for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Provence Region Roman Abbey of Montmajour Entrance Ticket: $7.64
  • City tour 45mn of the city, its history, its monuments,: $70
  • City tour 1 hour of the city, its history, its monuments,: $84
  • From Avignon: Arles, Les Baux-de-Provence & Saint-Rémy Tour: $106
  • Arles 2-Hour Private Walking Tour: $187
  • 2-Hour Private Walking Tour: $201
  • Half Day Private Guided Tour of Arles: $202
  • Private Guided Tour of Arles: $218
  • Art and History Walking Tour: $299
  • Arles Private guided walking tour from Marseille: $342
  • Arles, Saint-Rémy & Les Baux De Provence: Guided Tour: $1,176

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Thiva (Thebes) 18
    Arles 24

Sample the Local Flavors in Arles

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

  • Lavender Field & Distillery Tour between Nimes & Arles: $6.20


When comparing the travel costs between Thiva (Thebes) and Arles, we can see that Arles 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 Thiva (Thebes) Expensive? and Is Arles Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Thiva (Thebes) or Arles?

Arles has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Thiva (Thebes). When comparing the sizes of Thiva (Thebes) and Arles, 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 Thiva (Thebes) or Arles?

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 Thiva (Thebes) or Arles in the Summer?

Both Arles and Thiva (Thebes) are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Thiva (Thebes) in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Arles for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Thiva (Thebes) is a little warmer than Arles. Typically, the summer temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Arles averages at about 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Arles. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Thiva (Thebes). Thiva (Thebes) usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Arles during summer. Thiva (Thebes) gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Arles receives 354 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives less rain than Arles. Thiva (Thebes) gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Arles receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Thiva (Thebes) 27°C (81°F) 
    Arles 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Arles in the Autumn?

Both Arles and Thiva (Thebes) during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Thiva (Thebes) for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Arles because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Thiva (Thebes) is generally a little warmer than Arles. Daily temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) average around 19°C (67°F), and Arles fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

It's quite sunny in Thiva (Thebes). In the autumn, Thiva (Thebes) often gets more sunshine than Arles. Thiva (Thebes) gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arles receives 178 hours of full sun.

Arles gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Thiva (Thebes) usually gets less rain in October than Arles. Thiva (Thebes) gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Arles receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Thiva (Thebes) 19°C (67°F) 
    Arles 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Arles in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Thiva (Thebes) and Arles. The winter months attract visitors to Thiva (Thebes) because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Arles this time of year.

Thiva (Thebes) is much warmer than Arles in the winter. The daily temperature in Thiva (Thebes) averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Arles fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Thiva (Thebes) usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Arles during winter. Thiva (Thebes) gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Arles receives 146 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives less rain than Arles. Thiva (Thebes) gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Arles receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Thiva (Thebes) 10°C (51°F) 
    Arles 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Arles in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Thiva (Thebes) as well as Arles. The activities around the city are the main draw to Thiva (Thebes) this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Arles for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Thiva (Thebes) is a little warmer than Arles. Typically, the spring temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Arles averages at about 13°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Arles. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Thiva (Thebes) this time of the year. In the spring, Thiva (Thebes) often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Arles. Thiva (Thebes) gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arles receives 218 hours of full sun.

Thiva (Thebes) usually gets less rain in April than Arles. Thiva (Thebes) gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Arles receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Thiva (Thebes) 16°C (60°F) 
    Arles 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Arles and Thiva (Thebes)

Thiva (Thebes) Arles
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 7°C (44°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 10°C (50°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 13°C (56°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 60 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 21°C (69°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 24°C (75°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 23°C (74°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 20°C (69°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 16°C (61°F) 130 mm (5.1 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 11°C (51°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 7°C (45°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)