A Travel Price Comparison for France Toulon vs. Nice for Food, Nightlife, Couples, and Beaches

Should you visit Toulon or Nice?

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

Toulon

Toulon is a authentic, off-the-beaten-path, and real world port city. Toulon is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and beaches. See Toulon travel costs.

Nice

Nice is a opulent, trendy, and chic seaside destination. You'll find world class beauty in Nice as well. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. It's also known for beaches, shopping, and nightlife. See Nice travel costs.

Toulon and Nice: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Toulon or Nice?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nice. Although Toulon and Nice are about the same size, Nice has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Nice is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Toulon attracts visitors for its museums and attractions. Nice is more touristy than Toulon and is known for its beachfront setting in the French Riviera as well as its popularity with A-list celebrities. It is also well known for The Promenade des Anglais. Toulon is famous for its old town, its coastal setting, and its popularity with local vacationers.

How is Toulon different from Nice?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Toulon is a port city with good options for its sights and museums. However, Nice does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Nice does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Nice 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.

Nice has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The cuisine brings together fresh regional ingredients and mixes Provençal and Niçoise flavors. You'll find a lot of Italian influence as well. Fresh seafood is the thing to try while you're in town, but other local favorites include socca, Ratatouille, and Salade niçoise.

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 Nice Better for Nightlife?

Nice is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Nice is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The city has some of the best nightlife on the Cote d'Azur. You'll find a number of nightclubs along the seaside as well a bars and pubs in the Old Town. Some of the best clubs are along Promenade des Anglais.

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.

Is Toulon or Nice Better for Resorts?

Nice is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Toulon is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Nice is a perfect choice. The city has boutique hotels as well high end luxury resorts. Popular options include Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée, Hôtel Suisse, and AC Hotel by Marriott.

Toulon is not a resort destination.

Is Toulon or Nice Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Nice is very good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Toulon is not a good port city for its diving and snorkeling.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Nice. There are some places where you can arrange a snorkeling or dive trip to explore the underwater setting.

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.

Is Toulon or Nice Better for Beaches?

Nice is a well-known place for its beaches. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for the beach.

Nice is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The city has about 4 miles of beach along its coastline and there are both public and private beaches available. La Réserve is a public beach with a laid back and fun vibe. Plage Beau Rivage is a private beach with many amenities, making it a favorite for visitors. Blue Beach is another private beach that is very family-friendly.

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.

Is Toulon or Nice Better for its Old Town?

Nice is a well-known place for its historic old town. However, Toulon is not a good port city for its old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Nice. Wandering around the charming old town is a quintessential part of visiting this city. There are many historic churches and squares, as well as great restaurants and shops that you can pop in.

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 Nice?

Both Toulon and Nice are superb 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.

Nice is well-known for its shopping. The city has long been a favorite for the rich and famous, so you'll find plenty of shopping opportunities around town. The boutique shops are chic, trendy, and fashionable, but for those on a budget, you can sometimes find a unique local purchase in your budget.

Is Toulon or Nice More Beautiful?

Nice is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Nice as well. A premiere destination in the French Riviera, this town is known for it's luxury, glitz, charm, and personality.

Toulon is a beautiful place to visit, too. Located on the French Riviera, you won't be disappointed by the beauty. Despite being less touristy than many nearby towns, there is still plenty to see and do.

Is Toulon or Nice Better for Families?

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

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.

Nice is a family-friendly port city. The town has many fun playgrounds, kid-friendly beaches, and unique cultural opportunities that kids can enjoy. It also makes a great base for exploring the French Riviera and everything that it has to offer.

Is Toulon or Nice Better for Couples?

Nice 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, Nice has plenty to offer. The old town is filled with romance and charm. You can also take a walk along the Promenade Des Anglais or soak up the romantic countryside that surrounds the 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 Nice Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Toulon and Nice are nice 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 Nice. Because it's one of the most popular tourist destinations in France, many backpackers make their way here. Nice is known for its high end vibe, so it can be challenging to find affordable options, but if you know where to look, they are around.

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

Nice is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Nice is fairly effecient and thorough. There are both buses and trams.

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

Is Toulon or Nice a more walkable city?

Nice 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 Nice on foot. You should definitely spend some time exploring the 7 kilometer long Promenade des Anglais.

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 Nice Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nice or Toulon?

How long in Toulon or Nice?

In either Toulon or Nice, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Nice 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 Nice.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nice 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 Nice.

One day in Toulon or Nice?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Toulon. 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 nightlife when visiting the quaint destination of Nice. 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 Nice?

Toulon is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Nice 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 Nice?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the authentic destination of Toulon. This port city offers something for everyone. 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 Nice. 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 Nice?

The real world port city of Toulon offers nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the beautiful destination of Nice. This seaside destination offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 Tours for Seniors to France, and The Best Contiki Tours to France.

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

Which is Bigger, Toulon or Nice?

Nice has a larger population, and is about 13% larger than the population of Toulon. When comparing the sizes of Toulon and Nice, 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 Nice?

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 Nice in the Summer?

Both Nice and Toulon are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Toulon for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Nice in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Toulon is around the same temperature as Nice. Typically, the summer temperatures in Toulon in July average around 24°C (75°F), and Nice averages at about 23°C (73°F).

In July, Toulon usually receives less rain than Nice. Toulon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Nice receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Toulon or Nice in the Autumn?

Both Nice and Toulon during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Toulon in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Nice for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Toulon is generally around the same temperature as Nice. Daily temperatures in Toulon average around 16°C (61°F), and Nice fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Nice gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Toulon usually gets less rain in October than Nice. Toulon gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Nice receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Toulon or Nice in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Toulon and Nice. Most visitors come to Toulon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Nice because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Toulon is cooler than Nice in the winter. The daily temperature in Toulon averages around 7°C (44°F) in January, and Nice fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In January, Toulon usually receives less rain than Nice. Toulon gets 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Nice receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Toulon or Nice in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Toulon as well as Nice. The spring months attract visitors to Toulon because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Nice this time of year.

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

Toulon usually gets less rain in April than Nice. Toulon gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Nice receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Nice and Toulon