A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Toulon vs. Cairngorms National Park for Families, Couples, Food, and Backpackers

Should you visit Toulon or Cairngorms National Park?

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 Cairngorms National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Toulon

Toulon is a off-the-beaten-path, real world, and industrial port city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is a remote, beautiful, and serene national park. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food and hiking.

Toulon and Cairngorms National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Toulon or Cairngorms National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Toulon than Cairngorms National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Toulon is better known for its museums, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and shopping, while Cairngorms National Park is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Cairngorms National Park is more touristy than Toulon and is popular for its impressive hikes, scenic natural beauty, and nice mountains. 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 Cairngorms National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cairngorms National Park 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 Cairngorms National Park?

Toulon
Cairngorms National Park

Toulon is very good for its museums and history. However, Cairngorms National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Toulon. 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.

Cairngorms National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Toulon or Cairngorms National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Toulon
Cairngorms National Park

Dining out at restaurants in both Toulon and Cairngorms National Park can be an enjoyable experience.

Toulon offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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.

Cairngorms National Park has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a variety of cafes, pubs, and restaurants in the area that offer hearty dishes to fill a hungry hiker.

Is Toulon or Cairngorms National Park Better for Nightlife?

Toulon
Cairngorms National Park

Toulon is very good for its evening party scene. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Toulon. 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.

Cairngorms National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Toulon or Cairngorms National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Toulon
Cairngorms National Park

Toulon is a decent place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Toulon. 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.

Cairngorms National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Toulon or Cairngorms National Park Better for Beaches?

Toulon
Cairngorms National Park

Toulon is very good for the beach. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Toulon to enjoy the beach. 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.

Cairngorms National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Toulon or Cairngorms National Park Better for its Old Town?

Toulon
Cairngorms National Park

Toulon is a decent place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Cairngorms National Park 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.

Cairngorms National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Toulon or Cairngorms National Park Better for Hiking?

Toulon
Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Toulon is not a hiking destination.

Cairngorms National Park is a popular spot for hiking. There are hikes for every skill level. You'll find waterfalls, open glens, mountains, and beautiful lakes. Some of the best hikes include the Falls of Bruar, Morrone, and the Seven Bridges Trail.

Toulon is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Toulon or Cairngorms National Park?

Toulon
Cairngorms National Park

Toulon is a very popular place for its shopping areas. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Toulon. 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.

Cairngorms National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Toulon or Cairngorms National Park Better for Families?

Toulon
Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Cairngorms National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. The outdoor wilderness, natural lakes, and fun activities make for a great family holiday. Head to the beach at Loch Morlich or go for a pony trek. You can also take a ride on the Strathspey Steam Railway or if the kids are craving a bit more excitement head to Landmark Forest Adventure Park.

Toulon is a family-friendly port city. 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.

Is Toulon or Cairngorms National Park Better for Couples?

Toulon
Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park 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.

Cairngorms National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. The hiking, natural beauty, and stunning setting make for a wonderful couples getaway. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the serene setting and it's not uncommon for some couples to get engaged in this beautiful park.

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 Cairngorms National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Toulon
Cairngorms National Park

Both Toulon and Cairngorms National Park 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 Cairngorms National Park. Transportation without a car is basically impossible, but camping is a great way to experience the park to its fullest without breaking the bank.

Is Toulon or Cairngorms National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Toulon
Cairngorms National Park

Toulon is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Cairngorms National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Cairngorms National Park. To fully explore the park, you really need to have your own vehicle, but there are local buses and trains that travel to the park.

Is Toulon or Cairngorms National Park a more walkable city?

Toulon
Cairngorms National Park

Toulon is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a walkable destination.

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

Cairngorms National Park is not a walkable destination.


For even more information, also check out Is Toulon Worth Visiting? and Is Cairngorms National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cairngorms National Park or Toulon?

How long in Toulon or Cairngorms National Park?

In either Toulon or Cairngorms National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Cairngorms National Park than Toulon because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Toulon, and 3-5 days is enough time in Cairngorms National Park.

Families should spend more time in Toulon than Cairngorms National Park. 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 Toulon than Cairngorms National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Toulon that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Toulon than Cairngorms National Park 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.


  • How many days in Toulon or Cairngorms National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Toulon 1-2 
    Cairngorms National Park 3-5

One day in Toulon or Cairngorms National Park?

With food and shopping around the industrial port city of Toulon, there's plenty to do. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Cairngorms National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Toulon or Cairngorms National Park?

With shopping and museums around the real world destination of Toulon, there's plenty to do. If you have a weekend, this port city makes for a great vacation.A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Cairngorms National Park is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Toulon or Cairngorms National Park?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the off-the-beaten-path port city of Toulon. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cairngorms National Park. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A week in Toulon or Cairngorms National Park?

Toulon is a great place to explore. 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. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Travelers enjoy the food when visiting the remote destination of Cairngorms National Park. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 10-Day Tours from Edinburgh, and The Best 2-Week Tours from London.


Which place is cheaper, Cairngorms National Park or Toulon?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Toulon is €119, while the average daily cost in Cairngorms National Park is €139. 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 Toulon and Cairngorms National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Toulon 79
    Cairngorms National Park 65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Toulon 158
    Cairngorms National Park 130
Compare Hotels in Toulon and Cairngorms National Park

Looking for a hotel in Toulon or Cairngorms National Park? 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 Toulon


Hotels in Cairngorms National Park


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: Toulon Hotel Prices and Cairngorms National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Toulon 7.14
    Cairngorms National Park 62

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Toulon

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Toulon:

  • Transfer from Toulon Cruise Port to Marseille Provence Airport: $117
  • Private Transfer from Toulon Cruise Port to Marseille city Hotels: $117

Is it cheaper to fly into Toulon or Cairngorms National Park?

Prices for flights to both Cairngorms National Park and Toulon 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
    Toulon 30
    Cairngorms National Park 35

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Toulon

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Toulon.

  • Culinary Heritage Guided Walking Food Tour: $102
  • Toulon Traditional Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience : $104

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Toulon 13
    Cairngorms National Park 31

Tours and Activities in Toulon

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Toulon are as follows:

  • Guided Tour in Port & Old City: $55
  • Ile de Porquerolles: VIP tour et déjeuner Fondation Carmignac: $217
  • Private Heritage Walking Tour in Toulon: $178
  • Provence Abbey of Thoronet Entrance Ticket: $9.81
  • Toulon Private Tour: $278
  • Little Train Ticket: $9.62

Tours and Activities in Cairngorms National Park

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

  • Private Walking Tour to Ben Macdui Scotland: $114
  • Cairn Gorm Mountain Adventure Private Hike: $168
  • Private Guided Mountain Walking Experience in the Cairngorms: $177
  • Private Guided Ridge Scrambling Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Rock Climbing Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Winter Mountain Walking Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Winter Mountaineering Experience in the Cairngorms: $222

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Toulon 14
    Cairngorms National Park 9.83

Sample the Local Flavors in Toulon

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Toulon:

  • Cellar Visit & Bandol Wine Tasting (in French): $13
  • Horse riding in the vineyards of Ramatuelle + wine tasting: $97


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Toulon and Cairngorms National Park, we can see that Cairngorms National Park 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 Cairngorms National Park would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cairngorms National Park 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 Cairngorms National Park Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Toulon or Cairngorms National Park?

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 Toulon or Cairngorms National Park in the Summer?

Both Cairngorms National Park and Toulon during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Toulon because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cairngorms National Park this time of year.

In July, Toulon is generally much warmer than Cairngorms National Park. Daily temperatures in Toulon average around 24°C (75°F), and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

It's quite sunny in Toulon. In the summer, Toulon often gets more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park. Toulon gets 366 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cairngorms National Park receives 147 hours of full sun.

Toulon usually gets less rain in July than Cairngorms National Park. Toulon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Toulon 24°C (75°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Toulon or Cairngorms National Park in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Toulon and Cairngorms National Park. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Toulon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cairngorms National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

Toulon is much warmer than Cairngorms National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in Toulon averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

In Toulon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Toulon usually receives more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park during autumn. Toulon gets 205 hours of sunny skies, while Cairngorms National Park receives 84 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Toulon usually receives more rain than Cairngorms National Park. Toulon gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Toulon 16°C (61°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 9°C (49°F)

Should I visit Toulon or Cairngorms National Park in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Toulon as well as Cairngorms National Park. Many travelers come to Toulon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Cairngorms National Park in the winter for the cuisine.

Cairngorms National Park can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Toulon is much warmer than Cairngorms National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Toulon in January average around 7°C (44°F), and Cairngorms National Park averages at about 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Toulon often gets more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park. Toulon gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cairngorms National Park receives 42 hours of full sun.

Toulon usually gets more rain in January than Cairngorms National Park. Toulon gets 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Toulon 7°C (44°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Toulon or Cairngorms National Park in the Spring?

Both Cairngorms National Park and Toulon are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Toulon in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Cairngorms National Park for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Toulon is generally much warmer than Cairngorms National Park. Daily temperatures in Toulon average around 13°C (56°F), and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Toulon. Toulon usually receives more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park during spring. Toulon gets 245 hours of sunny skies, while Cairngorms National Park receives 136 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Toulon usually receives more rain than Cairngorms National Park. Toulon gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Toulon 13°C (56°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 7°C (44°F)

Typical Weather for Cairngorms National Park and Toulon

Toulon Cairngorms National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 7°C (44°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 3°C (38°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 8°C (46°F) 85 mm (3.3 in) 3°C (38°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 10°C (50°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 5°C (41°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 13°C (56°F) 52 mm (2 in) 7°C (44°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
May 17°C (63°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 10°C (50°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Jun 21°C (69°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 13°C (55°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jul 24°C (75°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 14°C (58°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 23°C (74°F) 26 mm (1 in) 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 20°C (69°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (54°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 16°C (61°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 9°C (49°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 11°C (51°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 5°C (42°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Dec 7°C (45°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 4°C (39°F) 52 mm (2 in)