A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Toulon vs. Florence for Attractions, Food, Old Town, and Couples

Should you visit Toulon or Florence?

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 Florence can help you decide which place is right for you.

Toulon

Toulon is a industrial, authentic, and off-the-beaten-path port city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Florence

Florence is a alluring, historical, and artistic city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Toulon and Florence: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Toulon or Florence?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Florence than Toulon. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Florence is very popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Toulon attracts visitors for its scuba diving & snorkeling and beaches. Florence is more touristy than Toulon and is popular for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. It is also well known for The Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore). Toulon is famous for its old town, its coastal setting, and its popularity with local vacationers.

How is Toulon different from Florence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Florence 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 Florence?

Florence is an unbeatable place for its sights and museums. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Florence that are not to be missed. Because of it's important role in the Renaissance, the city has many world-renowned museums that you can visit. Famous sights and landmarks include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Academy Gallery.

Toulon offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

Is the Food Better in Toulon or Florence? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Florence 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.

Florence has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Once you've worked up an appetite exploring museums and churches, you'll find many amazing local restaurants around town. Local dishes incorporate a lot of hearty vegetables and meats. Famous dishes include a Florentine steak dish, rabbit, and a bean bed and cabbage soup.

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 Florence Better for Nightlife?

Both Toulon and Florence are nice when it comes to partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Florence. You'll find the most active nightlife in the Santa Croce neighborhood. The area attracts study abroad students as well as tourists who party late into the night.

Is Toulon or Florence Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Toulon is adequate for its diving and snorkeling. However, Florence is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are few places where you can 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.

Florence is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Toulon or Florence Better for Beaches?

Toulon is a nice place to visit for the beache. However, Florence 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.

Florence is not a beach destination.

Is Toulon or Florence Better for its Old Town?

Florence is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. However, Toulon is not a good port city for its old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Florence offers plenty to see. The historic center of the city is where you'll find many of the most beautiful buildings, art works, and quaint streets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it was at the heart of the Renaissance period.

You can check out the historic old town in Toulon. The old town has plazas, terraced cafes, and plenty of outdoor shopping opportunities that visitors can enjoy.

Is the Shopping Better in Toulon or Florence?

Both Toulon and Florence are excellent shopping destinations.

Toulon is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Florence is well-known for its shopping. There are many shops in the tourist heart of the city. Most are geared specifically to tourists so you may have to search to find a more authentic shopping experience. Famous items available in the city include gold jewelry, ceramics, leather, and perfume.

Is Toulon or Florence Better for Families?

You'll find nice kid-friendly activities in either Toulon or Florence.

Toulon is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Florence is a family-friendly port city. Most famous for its art and history, the city also has a number of activities that kids will enjoy. There's a carousel and a park that are perfect to let the little ones run around. There are a few kid-friendly museums, as well as a historic city center that will mesmerize the old and young alike.

Is Toulon or Florence Better for Couples?

Florence is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Florence has plenty to offer. Art and history lovers will enjoy a visit to this truly beautiful city. Couples who enjoy museums, historic buildings, and world-renowned art, will find plenty to do in this city.

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 Florence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Florence is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Florence is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. The city is part of a popular route through Italy, and you'll find many backpackers and students in town. There are also many hostels, so you should have no trouble meeting other young travelers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Toulon. 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.

Is Toulon or Florence Better for Students?

Florence is an unbeatable place for students. However, Toulon is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Florence. Many students visit this city as part of a short term study abroad program, or for the entire length of their studies. The city is beautiful, and whether your focus is art, history, or culture, this city will not disappoint.

Toulon is not popular with students.

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

Both Toulon and Florence offer nice 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.

Florence has some public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system.

Is Toulon or Florence a more walkable city?

Florence is an unbeatable place for its walkability. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Florence on foot. Most people explore the city on foot.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Toulon Worth Visiting? and Is Florence Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Florence or Toulon?

How long in Toulon or Florence?

Both Toulon and Florence have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Florence than in Toulon. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Toulon, and 2-7 days is enough time in Florence.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Florence than Toulon 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 Florence.

One day in Toulon or Florence?

The port city of Toulon offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Florence. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Toulon or Florence?

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

Florence 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 Florence?

Toulon 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Florence. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Florence?

Toulon 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 port city offers something for everyone.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the iconic destination of Florence. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Toulon or Florence?

Florence has a larger population, and is about 24% larger than the population of Toulon. When comparing the sizes of Toulon and Florence, 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 Florence?

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 Florence in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Toulon as well as Florence. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Toulon this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Florence for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Toulon is around the same temperature as Florence. Typically, the summer temperatures in Toulon in July average around 24°C (75°F), and Florence averages at about 25°C (77°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Florence. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Toulon this time of the year. In the summer, Toulon often gets more sunshine than Florence. Toulon gets 366 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 316 hours of full sun.

Toulon usually gets less rain in July than Florence. Toulon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Florence receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Toulon or Florence in the Autumn?

Both Florence and Toulon are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Toulon for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Florence in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Toulon is generally around the same temperature as Florence. Daily temperatures in Toulon average around 16°C (61°F), and Florence fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Toulon. Toulon usually receives more sunshine than Florence during autumn. Toulon gets 205 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Toulon usually receives around the same amount of rain as Florence. Toulon gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Florence receives 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Toulon or Florence in the Winter?

Both Florence and Toulon during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Toulon in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Florence for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Toulon is around the same temperature as Florence in the winter. The daily temperature in Toulon averages around 7°C (44°F) in January, and Florence fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In the winter, Toulon often gets more sunshine than Florence. Toulon gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 105 hours of full sun.

Toulon usually gets more rain in January than Florence. Toulon gets 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Florence receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Toulon or Florence in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Toulon and Florence. Most visitors come to Toulon for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Florence because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Toulon is around the same temperature as Florence. Typically, the spring temperatures in Toulon in April average around 13°C (56°F), and Florence averages at about 14°C (57°F).

In Toulon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Toulon usually receives more sunshine than Florence during spring. Toulon gets 245 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Toulon usually receives less rain than Florence. Toulon gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Florence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Florence and Toulon