A Travel Price Comparison for France Toulon vs. Aix-en-Provence for Food, Couples, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Toulon or Aix-en-Provence?

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 Toulon and Aix-en-Provence can help you decide which place is right for you.

Toulon

Toulon is a real world, industrial, and authentic port city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and food.

Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a historic, vibrant, and laid-back town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums.

Toulon and Aix-en-Provence: Pros and Cons

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

You'll generally find more things to do in Toulon than Aix-en-Provence. Toulon is bigger than Aix-en-Provence, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Toulon is better known for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and historical sights, while Aix-en-Provence is more popular for its food, shopping, and impressive beauty. Aix-en-Provence is more touristy than Toulon and is known for its Provençal cuisine made with local produce, its many art galleries, and its beautiful fountains and square. Toulon is well known for its old town, its coastal setting, and its popularity with local vacationers. Also, Toulon is famous for The Old Town.

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

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

Both Toulon and Aix-en-Provence have notable landmarks and museums for visitors.

Toulon is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Many of the sights are found in the old town and harbor areas. Some of the most interesting attractions include the Opera House, the Allied Landings Museum, the Naval Museum, and Cathédrale Sainte-Marie-de-la-Seds.

Aix-en-Provence offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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 Toulon or Aix-en-Provence? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Aix-en-Provence is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its restaurants.

Aix-en-Provence has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Toulon has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a variety of cafes and restaurants that are found along the harbor or in the old town. Whether you want waterfront views or a charming street front cafe, there are great options available. Many restaurants offer local seafood but you'll also find pastries, traditional local food, a several Italian restaurants.

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

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

Toulon has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It's a relatively large city and traditionally a sailor's town, so the city has a long running tradition of partying into the night. While it doesn't have the party-hard reputation of some places, you likely won't be bored at night. Head to the harbor area or the beaches around Mourillon for the most lively bars and cafes.

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 Toulon or Aix-en-Provence Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Toulon is a port city with a few options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Aix-en-Provence is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Toulon has a few snorkeling spots. There are a few beaches in the area that are worth checking out with a mask and snorkel. You'll likely see some underwater life hanging out by the rocks in the quieter areas.

Aix-en-Provence is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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

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

Toulon has a beach worth visiting. The beaches are sandy and less crowded than some of the more popular areas. The most accessible beach is Mourillon Beach which has public facilities and restaurants. If you're willing to venture a little farther from the center of town you'll find Mitre Beach which has some snorkeling. Battere Basse Beach is a bit quieter and also has snorkeling. Anse de Méjean is a popular spot with the locals.

Aix-en-Provence is not a beach destination.

Is Toulon or Aix-en-Provence Better for its Old Town?

Toulon is a port city with a few options for its historic old town charm. However, Aix-en-Provence does not have a historic old town.

The old town area in Toulon is worth visiting. The old town has plazas, terraced cafes, and plenty of outdoor shopping opportunities that visitors can enjoy.

Aix-en-Provence does not have a historic old town.

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

Aix-en-Provence is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Aix-en-Provence is a famous shopping destination with plenty of 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.

Toulon is well-known for its shopping. If you're looking for traditional local shopping opportunities then this is your place. There are a number of traditional Provençal markets around town but the most famous is Cours Lafayette. You can shop with the locals looking for produce or flowers. There's also a weekend farmers market, Petit Cours, that is fun to explore.

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

Toulon 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 Toulon. The city may be known as a hub for the French navy, but there are also activities that kids and adults alike can enjoy. There are several military themed museums, a few good beaches, and local shopping. There's also the enjoyable cable car ride that you can take to the top of Mont Faron as well as several nice seaside walks in the area.

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 Toulon or Aix-en-Provence Better for Couples?

Aix-en-Provence is a well-known place for romance. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its romantic activities.

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.

Toulon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will appreciate the walks along the coast or through the harbor. There are also nice restaurants, interesting art galleries, and a few good hotels around town that make for a nice couple's weekend.

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

Both Toulon and Aix-en-Provence are notable destinations for backpackers.

Toulon is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It doesn't have the reputation of many nearby towns along the French Riviera, so you can still find some affordable hostels and cafes in the area. You also won't find the crowds so you can enjoy a touch of the authentic local culture.

It's common for backpackers to visit Aix-en-Provence. There are a couple of hostels and cheap hotels that are good options for backpackers.

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

Aix-en-Provence is a well-known place for students. However, Toulon is not popular with students.

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

Toulon is not popular with students.

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

Both Toulon and Aix-en-Provence offer notable public transit options.

Toulon has a few public transit options. There are buses as well as petits trains (little tourist trains) that you can take around town.

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

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

Toulon and Aix-en-Provence both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Toulon is very walkable. You can walk around the old town and harbor area where many of the sights are concentrated.

Aix-en-Provence is a very walkable port city. 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 Toulon Worth Visiting? and Is Aix-en-Provence Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Toulon or Aix-en-Provence?

It's fun to spend time in either Toulon 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, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Toulon, and 2-4 days is enough time in Aix-en-Provence.

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

Couples should spend more time in Aix-en-Provence than Toulon. 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 Toulon than Aix-en-Provence 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 Toulon.

One day in Toulon or Aix-en-Provence?

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

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Aix-en-Provence. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Toulon or Aix-en-Provence?

The port city of Toulon 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.

Aix-en-Provence 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.

Five days in Toulon or Aix-en-Provence?

Toulon 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aix-en-Provence. 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.

A week in Toulon or Aix-en-Provence?

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

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Aix-en-Provence. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to France, The Best Budget Tours to France, The Best Tours for Seniors to France, and The Best Contiki Tours to France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Toulon and Aix-en-Provence, we can see that Aix-en-Provence is more expensive. And not only is Toulon much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Toulon would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Toulon 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 Toulon.

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

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

Toulon has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Aix-en-Provence. When comparing the sizes of Toulon 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 Toulon or Aix-en-Provence?

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 Toulon or Aix-en-Provence in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Toulon and Aix-en-Provence. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Toulon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Aix-en-Provence for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Toulon is generally around the same temperature as Aix-en-Provence. Daily temperatures in Toulon average around 24°C (75°F), and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Aix-en-Provence this time of the year. In Toulon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Toulon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Aix-en-Provence during summer. Toulon gets 366 hours of sunny skies, while Aix-en-Provence receives 366 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Toulon usually receives less rain than Aix-en-Provence. Toulon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Toulon as well as Aix-en-Provence. Many travelers come to Toulon for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Aix-en-Provence in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Toulon is around the same temperature as Aix-en-Provence in the autumn. The daily temperature in Toulon averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 16°C (61°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 Toulon this time of the year. In the autumn, Toulon often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Aix-en-Provence. Toulon gets 205 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aix-en-Provence receives 205 hours of full sun.

Toulon usually gets more rain in October than Aix-en-Provence. Toulon gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Aix-en-Provence and Toulon are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Toulon in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Aix-en-Provence for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Toulon is around the same temperature as Aix-en-Provence. Typically, the winter temperatures in Toulon in January average around 7°C (44°F), and Aix-en-Provence averages at about 7°C (44°F).

Toulon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Aix-en-Provence during winter. Toulon gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Aix-en-Provence receives 150 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Toulon usually receives more rain than Aix-en-Provence. Toulon gets 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

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

Both Aix-en-Provence and Toulon during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Toulon for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Aix-en-Provence because of the natural beauty.

In April, Toulon is generally around the same temperature as Aix-en-Provence. Daily temperatures in Toulon average around 13°C (56°F), and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In Aix-en-Provence, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Toulon. In the spring, Toulon often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Aix-en-Provence. Toulon gets 245 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aix-en-Provence receives 245 hours of full sun.

Toulon usually gets more rain in April than Aix-en-Provence. Toulon gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Aix-en-Provence and Toulon