A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Toulon vs. Imperia for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Toulon or Imperia?

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

Toulon

Toulon is a authentic, off-the-beaten-path, and real world port city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Imperia

Imperia is a authentic, charming, and undiscovered town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Toulon and Imperia: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Toulon or Imperia?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Toulon than Imperia, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. 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. Imperia is well known for its access to the Ligurian coastline.

How is Toulon different from Imperia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Toulon
Imperia

Both Toulon and Imperia 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.

Imperia offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several interesting buildings of importance around town.


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

Toulon
Imperia

Dining out at restaurants in both Toulon and Imperia 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.

Imperia has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Food ranges from typical Italian dishes to local recipes that use local ingredients. Unique ingredients in the area include trumpet zucchini, flat breads, and anchovies.

Is Toulon or Imperia Better for Nightlife?

Toulon
Imperia

Both Toulon and Imperia are notable 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 Imperia. There are some bars and lively restaurants around town where you can spend an enjoyable evening.

Is Toulon or Imperia Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Toulon
Imperia

Toulon is a moderate port city for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Imperia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Snorkeling is an option 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.

Imperia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Toulon or Imperia Better for Beaches?

Toulon
Imperia

Toulon is a popular place for the beach. However, Imperia is not a beach destination.

Toulon is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Imperia is not a beach destination.

Is Toulon or Imperia Better for its Old Town?

Toulon
Imperia

Toulon is a moderate port city for its historic old town charm. However, Imperia 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.

Imperia does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Toulon or Imperia?

Toulon
Imperia

Toulon is notable for its shopping areas. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Imperia. There are some shopping streets in town that have a mix of local brands and standard clothing shops.


Is Toulon or Imperia Better for Families?

Toulon
Imperia

You'll find notable kid-friendly activities in either Toulon or Imperia.

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.

Imperia is a family-friendly port city. There's some nice walking trails in the countryside that the kids will enjoy.

Is Toulon or Imperia Better for Couples?

Toulon
Imperia

Both Toulon and Imperia are notable destinations to visit as a couple.

Toulon is a nice destination for couples. 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.

Imperia makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a beautiful town with a nice atmosphere that offers a nice break from the tourist crowds.

Is Toulon or Imperia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Toulon
Imperia

Both Toulon and Imperia 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 Imperia. Accommodation tends to be affordable and there's an off-the-beaten-path vibe that some backpackers will appreciate.


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

Toulon
Imperia

Both Toulon and Imperia 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.

Imperia has some public transit options. There are buses that connect the city to different areas.

Is Toulon or Imperia a more walkable city?

Toulon
Imperia

Toulon is notable for its ease of walking around. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

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

Imperia is somewhat walkable. Parts of the town are convenient to walk around.

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

Should I spend more time in Imperia or Toulon?

How long in Toulon or Imperia?

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

Families should spend more time in Toulon than Imperia. 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 Imperia. 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 Imperia 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 Imperia? Ideal Length of Stay
    Toulon 1-2 
    Imperia 1-2

One day in Toulon or Imperia?

In Toulon, you'll find nightlife and food. This port city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Imperia. One day is often enough time to do most activities.


A weekend in Toulon or Imperia?

In Toulon, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Toulon has to offer.

Imperia 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 Imperia?

Toulon is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Imperia. 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 Imperia?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Toulon. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Toulon. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the authentic destination of Imperia. 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 Walking Tours in Italy, and The Best Luxury Tours to Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Imperia 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 Imperia 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 Toulon and Imperia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Toulon 79
    Imperia 51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Toulon 158
    Imperia 102
Compare Hotels in Toulon and Imperia

Looking for a hotel in Toulon or Imperia? 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 Imperia


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 Imperia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Toulon 7.14
    Imperia 36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Toulon

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Toulon:

  • Transfer from Toulon Cruise Port to Marseille Provence Airport: $118
  • Private Transfer from Toulon Cruise Port to Marseille city Hotels: $118

Is it cheaper to fly into Toulon or Imperia?

Prices for flights to both Imperia 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
    Imperia 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: $103
  • Toulon Traditional Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience : $105

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Toulon 13
    Imperia 13

Tours and Activities in Toulon

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

  • Little Train Ticket: $9.77
  • Provence Abbey of Thoronet Entrance Ticket: $9.91
  • Guided Tour in Port & Old City: $55
  • Private Heritage Walking Tour in Toulon: $180
  • Toulon Private Tour: $282

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Toulon 14
    Imperia 7.50

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: $98
  • Porquerolles Island and Carmignac Museum of Art with wine tasting: $275


When comparing the travel costs between Toulon and Imperia, we can see that Toulon 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 Toulon Expensive? and Is Imperia Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Toulon or Imperia?

Toulon has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Imperia. When comparing the sizes of Toulon and Imperia, 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 Imperia?

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 Imperia in the Summer?

Both Imperia and Toulon are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Toulon for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Imperia because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Toulon is generally around the same temperature as Imperia. Daily temperatures in Toulon average around 24°C (75°F), and Imperia fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

It's quite sunny in Imperia. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Toulon. Toulon usually receives more sunshine than Imperia during summer. Toulon gets 366 hours of sunny skies, while Imperia receives 295 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Toulon usually receives less rain than Imperia. Toulon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Toulon 24°C (75°F) 
    Imperia 25°C (76°F)

Should I visit Toulon or Imperia in the Autumn?

Both Imperia and Toulon during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Toulon because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Imperia this time of year.

Toulon is cooler than Imperia in the autumn. The daily temperature in Toulon averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Imperia fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

It's quite sunny in Toulon. In the autumn, Toulon often gets more sunshine than Imperia. Toulon gets 205 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Imperia receives 183 hours of full sun.

Toulon usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Imperia. Toulon gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Toulon 16°C (61°F) 
    Imperia 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Toulon or Imperia in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Toulon and Imperia. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Toulon this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Imperia for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Toulon is much colder than Imperia. Typically, the winter temperatures in Toulon in January average around 7°C (44°F), and Imperia averages at about 11°C (51°F).

Toulon usually receives more sunshine than Imperia during winter. Toulon gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Imperia receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Toulon usually receives around the same amount of rain as Imperia. Toulon gets 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Toulon 7°C (44°F) 
    Imperia 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Toulon or Imperia in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Toulon as well as Imperia. Many travelers come to Toulon for the beaches and the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Imperia in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, Toulon is generally cooler than Imperia. Daily temperatures in Toulon average around 13°C (56°F), and Imperia fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Toulon this time of the year. In the spring, Toulon often gets more sunshine than Imperia. Toulon gets 245 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Imperia receives 198 hours of full sun.

Toulon usually gets less rain in April than Imperia. Toulon gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Toulon 13°C (56°F) 
    Imperia 15°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Imperia and Toulon

Toulon Imperia
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 7°C (44°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Feb 8°C (46°F) 85 mm (3.3 in) 11°C (51°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Mar 10°C (50°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 12°C (54°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 13°C (56°F) 52 mm (2 in) 15°C (58°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 17°C (63°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 18°C (64°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 21°C (69°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 21°C (71°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Jul 24°C (75°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 25°C (76°F) 12 mm (0.5 in)
Aug 23°C (74°F) 26 mm (1 in) 25°C (77°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Sep 20°C (69°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 22°C (72°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 16°C (61°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 19°C (66°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Nov 11°C (51°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 14°C (58°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 7°C (45°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 12°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)