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

Should you visit Toulouse or Imperia?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Toulouse and Imperia can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Toulouse

Toulouse is a friendly, relaxed, and dynamic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Imperia

Imperia is a undiscovered, authentic, and charming town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Toulouse and Imperia: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food


Is there more to do in Toulouse or Imperia?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Toulouse. Although Toulouse and Imperia are popular destinations, Toulouse has more sights and attractions for tourists. Toulouse is famous for its impressive old town, many museums, and delicious local cuisine. It is also well known for Basilique Saint-Sernin. Imperia is famous for its access to the Ligurian coastline.

How is Toulouse different from Imperia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Imperia and Toulouse. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Toulouse or Imperia?

Toulouse
Imperia

Toulouse is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

Toulouse offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There is a long running history with countless landmarks and museums. Highlights include Basilique Saint-Sernin, Place du Capitole, Muséum de Toulouse, and Fondation Bemberg.

Imperia is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several interesting buildings of importance around town.


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

Toulouse
Imperia

Toulouse is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Toulouse is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. There are many unique regional recipes that make use of poultry, cold meats, and foie gras. Toulouse sausage, cassoulet, Poulet à la Toulousaine, and Foie gras d’oie are all popular local dishes.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Imperia. 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 Toulouse or Imperia Better for Nightlife?

Toulouse
Imperia

Toulouse is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for nightlife.

Toulouse has plenty to do after the sun goes down. You'll find a large number of students in town so the nightlife scene is active and fun. For the most lively atmosphere head to Carmes, Saint-Cyprien, or Place Saint-Pierre.

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 Toulouse or Imperia Better for its Old Town?

Toulouse
Imperia

Toulouse is notable for its historic old town charm. However, Imperia does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Toulouse. The old town is filled with terra-cota buildings and pedestrian walkways. The area flows out around the Capitole and is crossed by the Garonne.

Imperia does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Toulouse or Imperia?

Toulouse
Imperia

Toulouse 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 Toulouse. There are many great shopping districts around town including Place du Capitole, The Saint Georges district, and Rue Alsace Lorraine.

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 Toulouse or Imperia Better for Families?

Toulouse
Imperia

Toulouse is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Toulouse is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city's known for its space industry so the La Cite de l’Espace (Space Museum) is a favorite attraction for kids and adults alike. You can also visit Aeroscopia, the airplane museum. La Halle de la machine is a truly unique and impressive playground. The city also has many other museums and outdoor spaces to explore.

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

Is Toulouse or Imperia Better for Couples?

Toulouse
Imperia

Toulouse is notable for couples. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

Toulouse is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many beautiful parks, gardens, and walking paths. Make sure you take a stroll along the Canal du Midi and visit Jardin Japonais Pierre Baudis. This is also a great city for visiting a spa.

Imperia is a nice destination for couples. It's a beautiful town with a nice atmosphere that offers a nice break from the tourist crowds.


Is Toulouse or Imperia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Toulouse
Imperia

Imperia is a town with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Toulouse is not a good destination for backpackers.

Imperia is a good town to visit for backpackers. Accommodation tends to be affordable and there's an off-the-beaten-path vibe that some backpackers will appreciate.

Toulouse is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a major stop off for many backpackers in Europe so you won't find as many hostels as you do in other cities.

Is Toulouse or Imperia Better for Students?

Toulouse
Imperia

Toulouse is a popular place for students. However, Imperia is not popular with students.

Toulouse is a good city to visit for students. You'll find a diverse student population with many international students.

Imperia is not popular with students.

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

Toulouse
Imperia

Toulouse and Imperia both offer nice public transit to get you around.

While Toulouse offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are a large number of bus routes that travel both locally and regionally.

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


Is Toulouse or Imperia a more walkable city?

Toulouse
Imperia

Toulouse 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.

Toulouse is a very walkable destination. Within the city center it is very walkable and easy to explore on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Imperia or Toulouse?

How long in Toulouse or Imperia?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Toulouse or Imperia to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Toulouse than Imperia because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Toulouse, and 1-2 days is enough time in Imperia.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Toulouse or Imperia? Ideal Length of Stay
    Toulouse 2-4 
    Imperia 1-2

One day in Toulouse or Imperia?

In Toulouse, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The town of Imperia 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.

A weekend in Toulouse or Imperia?

In Toulouse, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Toulouse has to offer.

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


Five days in Toulouse or Imperia?

Toulouse is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

Imperia 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.

A week in Toulouse or Imperia?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Toulouse. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Toulouse. One reason most visitors come is for the food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Imperia 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 town offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in France, The Best 10-Day Tours in France, The Best Walking Tours in Italy, and The Best Luxury Tours to Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Imperia or Toulouse?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Toulouse is €125, 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 Toulouse and Imperia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Toulouse 67
    Imperia 51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Toulouse 134
    Imperia 102
Compare Hotels in Toulouse and Imperia

Looking for a hotel in Toulouse 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 Toulouse


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: Toulouse Hotel Prices and Imperia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Toulouse 41
    Imperia 36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Toulouse

Also for Toulouse, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Arrival Transfer Toulouse Airport TLS to Toulouse by Car or Van: $41
  • Transfer from BLAGNAC Airport to all other destinations in Toulouse: $53
  • Toulouse Private Transfer from Toulouse city centre to Toulouse Airport: $66
  • Toulouse Private Transfer from Toulouse Airport to City centre: $67
  • Private transfer from or to Toulouse Airport: $87
  • Departure Private Transfer: Toulouse to Toulouse Airport TLS in Luxury Van: $92
  • Private transfer your alternative to taxi for your travels: $93
  • Transfer Toulouse to Carcassonne center: $240

Is it cheaper to fly into Toulouse or Imperia?

Prices for flights to both Imperia and Toulouse 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
    Toulouse 34
    Imperia 35

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Toulouse

For Toulouse, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • No Diet Club - Best food tour in Toulouse !: $52
  • Bakeries, Chocolate & Patisseries Food Tour: $76
  • Traditional Toulouse Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $104
  • Victor Hugo Market Guided Food Tour with Tastings: $105
  • Marché Victor Hugo Small Group Food Tour: $107

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Toulouse 15
    Imperia 13

Tours and Activities in Toulouse

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Toulouse.

  • Toulouse : Self-guided Reading Tour: $2.13
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Toulouse : Walking tour with audio guide: $5.29
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.36
  • Toulouse Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self Guided Tour: $6.56
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $6.95
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.95
  • Toulouse's Timeless Splendor: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Toulous: Glory of Occitania Audio Tour: $15
  • Aeroscopia Admission Ticket: $16
  • Sightseeing Tour by Open-Top Minibus: $17

Tours and Activities in Imperia

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

  • Imperia - Old Town Private Historic Walking Tour: $428

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Toulouse 7.50
    Imperia 7.50

Sample the Local Flavors in Toulouse

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Toulouse:

  • Pub Crawl Toulouse: $20
  • From Toulouse Cite de carcassonne et wine tasting: $530


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Toulouse and Imperia, we can see that Toulouse is more expensive. And not only is Imperia much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Imperia would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Imperia 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 Toulouse would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Toulouse than you might in Imperia.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Toulouse Expensive? and Is Imperia Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Toulouse or Imperia?

Toulouse has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Imperia. When comparing the sizes of Toulouse 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 Toulouse or Imperia?

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 Toulouse or Imperia in the Summer?

Both Imperia and Toulouse during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Toulouse for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Imperia in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Toulouse is around the same temperature as Imperia in the summer. The daily temperature in Toulouse averages around 22°C (72°F) in July, and Imperia fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

In Imperia, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Toulouse. In the summer, Toulouse often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Imperia. Toulouse gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Imperia receives 295 hours of full sun.

Toulouse usually gets more rain in July than Imperia. Toulouse gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Toulouse 22°C (72°F) 
    Imperia 25°C (76°F)

Should I visit Toulouse or Imperia in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Toulouse and Imperia. Many visitors come to Toulouse in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Imperia for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Toulouse is cooler than Imperia. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Toulouse in October average around 15°C (60°F), and Imperia averages at about 19°C (66°F).

Toulouse usually receives less sunshine than Imperia during autumn. Toulouse gets 161 hours of sunny skies, while Imperia receives 183 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Toulouse usually receives less rain than Imperia. Toulouse gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Toulouse 15°C (60°F) 
    Imperia 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Toulouse or Imperia in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Toulouse as well as Imperia. Most visitors come to Toulouse for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Imperia because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Toulouse is generally much colder than Imperia. Daily temperatures in Toulouse average around 6°C (44°F), and Imperia fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the winter, Toulouse often gets less sunshine than Imperia. Toulouse gets 88 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Imperia receives 127 hours of full sun.

Toulouse usually gets less rain in January than Imperia. Toulouse gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Toulouse 6°C (44°F) 
    Imperia 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Toulouse or Imperia in the Spring?

Both Imperia and Toulouse are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Toulouse because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Imperia this time of year.

Toulouse is cooler than Imperia in the spring. The daily temperature in Toulouse averages around 12°C (54°F) in April, and Imperia fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

Toulouse usually receives less sunshine than Imperia during spring. Toulouse gets 178 hours of sunny skies, while Imperia receives 198 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Toulouse usually receives around the same amount of rain as Imperia. Toulouse gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Toulouse 12°C (54°F) 
    Imperia 15°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Imperia and Toulouse

Toulouse Imperia
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (44°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Feb 8°C (46°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 11°C (51°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Mar 10°C (49°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 12°C (54°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 12°C (54°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 15°C (58°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 16°C (60°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 18°C (64°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 19°C (67°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 21°C (71°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Jul 22°C (72°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 25°C (76°F) 12 mm (0.5 in)
Aug 22°C (71°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 25°C (77°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Sep 20°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 22°C (72°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 15°C (60°F) 52 mm (2 in) 19°C (66°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Nov 10°C (50°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 14°C (58°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 7°C (45°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 12°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)