A Travel Price Comparison for France Versailles vs. Aix-en-Provence for Attractions, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Versailles or Aix-en-Provence?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Versailles or Aix-en-Provence, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Versailles

Versailles is a opulent, historic, and extensive palace. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include museums.

Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a relaxing, historic, and vibrant town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Versailles and Aix-en-Provence: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Versailles or Aix-en-Provence?

You'll generally find more things to do in Aix-en-Provence than Versailles. Aix-en-Provence is bigger than Versailles, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Aix-en-Provence is better known for its food, nightlife, and shopping, while Versailles is more popular for its museums and impressive beauty. Versailles is more touristy than Aix-en-Provence and is popular for its long running history and its grand architecture. Aix-en-Provence is well known for its Provençal cuisine made with local produce, its many art galleries, and its beautiful fountains and square. Also, Aix-en-Provence is famous for .

How is Versailles different from Aix-en-Provence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Aix-en-Provence and Versailles. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Versailles or Aix-en-Provence?

Versailles
Aix-en-Provence

Versailles is terrific for its museums and landmarks. Also, Aix-en-Provence is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Versailles on the map. The palace is filled with history and impressive items relating to the royal family. Within and near the palace you should make sure you see the Gardens of Versailles, Grand Trianon, the Hall of Mirrors, and the Royal Opera of Versailles.

Aix-en-Provence is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. In addition to its many squares and fountains, there is also Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur, Musée Granet, and Musée des Tapisseries.


Is the Food Better in Versailles or Aix-en-Provence? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Versailles
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is an amazing town to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Versailles is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Aix-en-Provence is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The range of restaurants includes everything from modern and trendy to traditional and casual. The town is surrounded by a region that is known for its local produce. There are also many markets worth checking out in town.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Versailles. There are a couple of restaurants and cafes on the grounds.

Is Versailles or Aix-en-Provence Better for Nightlife?

Versailles
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is adequate for nightlife. However, Versailles is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Aix-en-Provence doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The nightlife scene that does exist is mostly influenced by the town's large student population.

Versailles is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is the Shopping Better in Versailles or Aix-en-Provence?

Versailles
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is an amazing town to visit for shopping. However, Versailles is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Aix-en-Provence. It has some of the best shopping in France outside of Paris. There are many shopping streets where you can pick up trendy fashions or boutique local finds. Head to Rue Marius Reynard, Les Allées Provençales, or Rue Clemenceau for some of the best shopping.

Versailles is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Versailles or Aix-en-Provence Better for Families?

Versailles
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is adequate for its kid-friendly activities. However, Versailles is not known for its family-friendly activities.

For families, Aix-en-Provence is not always the best place to visit. Many kids enjoy checking out the town's many fountains or taking a bike for a ride outside of town.

Versailles does not offer many kid-friendly activities. While there are those unicorn children who fall in love with the grand setting, for most kids, a visit to Versailles can make for make for a long and draining day.

Is Versailles or Aix-en-Provence Better for Couples?

Versailles
Aix-en-Provence

Versailles and Aix-en-Provence are both superb to visit as a couple.

Versailles is a great palace if you're traveling as a couple. It's opulence, grandeur, and history make this a wonderful place to explore as a couple. There are gardens and other unique settings that make Versailles very romantic.

Aix-en-Provence is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's among the most charming towns in southern France and couples will enjoy the romantic buildings, beautiful fountains, and relaxing countryside. Whether you're on a honeymoon or a couple's getaway, this is a great town.

Is Versailles or Aix-en-Provence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Versailles
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Versailles is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

It's common for backpackers to visit Aix-en-Provence. There are a couple of hostels and cheap hotels that are good options for backpackers.

Versailles is not a backpacker-friendly destination.


Is Versailles or Aix-en-Provence Better for Students?

Versailles
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a great town for its student-friendly activities. However, Versailles is not popular with students.

Aix-en-Provence is a great town to visit as a student. It's a university town with a lively but laid-back atmosphere. It's also a popular study abroad destination for American university students.

Versailles is not popular with students.

Is Versailles or Aix-en-Provence Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Versailles
Aix-en-Provence

Versailles is well known for its public transit. Also, Aix-en-Provence is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Versailles can get you to most places easily. There are SNCF trains that travel from Gare Montparnasse to Versailles Chantiers train station and additional trains that travel between Gare Saint Lazare and Versailles Rive Droite.

While Aix-en-Provence offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. For the places you can't reach on foot, there is a bus network.

Is Versailles or Aix-en-Provence a more walkable city?

Versailles
Aix-en-Provence

Versailles and Aix-en-Provence are superb when it comes to walkability.

Versailles is very walkable. It's approximately a 20 minute walk from the Versailles Chantiers train station to the entrance to the palace. Versailles Rive Droite is slightly closer.

Aix-en-Provence is a very walkable palace. It's walkable, particularly in the heart of the city, so it's fun to explore on foot.


For even more information, also check out Is Versailles Worth Visiting? and Is Aix-en-Provence Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Aix-en-Provence or Versailles?

How long in Versailles or Aix-en-Provence?

It's fun to spend time in either Versailles or Aix-en-Provence. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Aix-en-Provence due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Versailles, and 2-4 days is enough time in Aix-en-Provence.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Aix-en-Provence than Versailles 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 Aix-en-Provence.


  • How many days in Versailles or Aix-en-Provence? Ideal Length of Stay
    Versailles 1-2 
    Aix-en-Provence 2-4

One day in Versailles or Aix-en-Provence?

The opulent destination of Versailles offers museums. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

With museums and food around the vibrant town of Aix-en-Provence, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Versailles or Aix-en-Provence?

The palace of Versailles offers museums. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

With food and shopping around the destination of Aix-en-Provence, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Five days in Versailles or Aix-en-Provence?

Versailles is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. This palace offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Aix-en-Provence, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A week in Versailles or Aix-en-Provence?

Many people enjoy the museums when visiting Versailles. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Aix-en-Provence is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in France, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in France, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in France.


Which place is cheaper, Aix-en-Provence or Versailles?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Versailles is €234, while the average daily cost in Aix-en-Provence is €138. 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 Versailles and Aix-en-Provence in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Versailles 128
    Aix-en-Provence 81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Versailles 256
    Aix-en-Provence 162
Compare Hotels in Versailles and Aix-en-Provence

Looking for a hotel in Versailles or Aix-en-Provence? 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 Versailles


Hotels in Aix-en-Provence


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: Versailles Hotel Prices and Aix-en-Provence Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Versailles 53
    Aix-en-Provence 33

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Aix-en-Provence

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Aix-en-Provence:

  • Aix en Provence: Guided Driving Tour with Hotel Transfer: $1,390
  • Marseille Airport Transfer From/To Cassis Van 7 pax: $269
  • Aix en Provence Transfer to Marseille Cruise port: $118
  • Marseille Cruise Port Transfer to Aix en Provence: $118
  • Aix TGV transfer to Marseille Port or Airport or Aix city: $93

Is it cheaper to fly into Versailles or Aix-en-Provence?

Prices for flights to both Aix-en-Provence and Versailles 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
    Versailles 67
    Aix-en-Provence 33

Typical Food Prices in Aix-en-Provence

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Aix-en-Provence:


  • Dinner for 2
    47

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Aix-en-Provence

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Aix-en-Provence.

  • NO DIET CLUB - Best food tour in Aix en Provence (En / Fr): $62
  • Food Tour: $102
  • Aix-en-Provence Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $104

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Versailles 45
    Aix-en-Provence 22

Tours and Activities in Versailles

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

  • Palace Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Ticket: $67
  • Versailles Palace Private Family Tour Designed for Kids: $261
  • Private Guided Tour of the Palace: $261

Tours and Activities in Aix-en-Provence

Here are a few actual costs in Aix-en-Provence for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Aix en Provence City Tour with Wine and Cheese - From Aix: $82
  • 2-Hour Foodie Tour with 10 Tastings in Aix-en-Provence: $76
  • 2H: Wine-Tour in Provence: $274
  • 4-Hour Lavender Fields Tour in Valensole from Aix-en-Provence: $87
  • Aix en Provence City Tour with Wine and Cheese: $80
  • Aix-en-Provence Walking Food and Culture Tour - 3 hour private tour: $131
  • A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Arles & Camargue National Park Private Tour: $1,016
  • Arles, Baux, & Saint-Rémy-de-Provence Tour: $1,016
  • Avignon Tour & Chateauneuf-du-Pape Tasting: $1,048
  • E-Bike Tour of Mount Sainte-Victoire: $73
  • Guided Foodie Tour with Tastings: $70

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Versailles 18
    Aix-en-Provence 14

Sample the Local Flavors in Aix-en-Provence

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Aix-en-Provence:

  • Half day Wine Tour in Côtes de Provence Sainte-Victoire from Aix en Provence: $93
  • Half Day Wine Tour in Coteaux d'Aix: $96
  • Half day Wine Tour in Côteaux Aix from Aix en Provence: $98
  • Half day Wine Tour in Bandol & Cassis from Aix en Provence: $104
  • From Wine Tour in Cezanne Countryside: $106
  • Provence small group half-day wine tour from Aix: $107
  • Cotes de Provence Wine Tour from Aix-en-Provence: $108
  • Aix en Provence: Delicious Food and Wine Tour: $117
  • Full Day Wine Tour in Luberon with Tasting: $143
  • Full day Wine Tour around Luberon from Aix en Provence: $151
  • Provence Day Trip with Cassis Village Boat Ride and Local Wine Tasting from Aix: $164
  • From Provence Region Tour with Wine Tasting: $166


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Versailles Expensive? and Is Aix-en-Provence Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Versailles or Aix-en-Provence?

Aix-en-Provence has a larger population, and is about 72% larger than the population of Versailles. When comparing the sizes of Versailles and Aix-en-Provence, 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 Versailles or Aix-en-Provence?

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 Versailles or Aix-en-Provence in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Versailles as well as Aix-en-Provence. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Aix-en-Provence this time of year.

In July, Versailles is generally cooler than Aix-en-Provence. Daily temperatures in Versailles average around 20°C (68°F), and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Aix-en-Provence. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Versailles this time of the year. In the summer, Versailles often gets less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence. Versailles gets 239 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aix-en-Provence receives 366 hours of full sun.

Versailles usually gets more rain in July than Aix-en-Provence. Versailles gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Versailles 20°C (68°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Versailles or Aix-en-Provence in the Autumn?

Both Aix-en-Provence and Versailles are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Versailles this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Aix-en-Provence for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Versailles is cooler than Aix-en-Provence in the autumn. The daily temperature in Versailles averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

It's quite sunny in Aix-en-Provence. Versailles usually receives less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence during autumn. Versailles gets 126 hours of sunny skies, while Aix-en-Provence receives 205 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Versailles usually receives less rain than Aix-en-Provence. Versailles gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Versailles 13°C (56°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Versailles or Aix-en-Provence in the Winter?

Both Aix-en-Provence and Versailles during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Versailles for the museums and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Aix-en-Provence in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Versailles. In the winter, Versailles is cooler than Aix-en-Provence. Typically, the winter temperatures in Versailles in January average around 5°C (40°F), and Aix-en-Provence averages at about 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Versailles often gets less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence. Versailles gets 56 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aix-en-Provence receives 150 hours of full sun.

Versailles usually gets more rain in January than Aix-en-Provence. Versailles gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Versailles 5°C (40°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Versailles or Aix-en-Provence in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Versailles and Aix-en-Provence. Many visitors come to Versailles in the spring for the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Aix-en-Provence for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Versailles is generally cooler than Aix-en-Provence. Daily temperatures in Versailles average around 11°C (52°F), and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Aix-en-Provence this time of the year. Versailles usually receives less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence during spring. Versailles gets 173 hours of sunny skies, while Aix-en-Provence receives 245 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Versailles usually receives around the same amount of rain as Aix-en-Provence. Versailles gets 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Versailles 11°C (52°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Aix-en-Provence and Versailles

Versailles Aix-en-Provence
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (40°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 6°C (42°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 8°C (47°F) 52 mm (2.1 in) 10°C (50°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 11°C (52°F) 50 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (56°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 15°C (59°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 17°C (63°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Jun 18°C (64°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 21°C (69°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 20°C (68°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 24°C (75°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Aug 20°C (67°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 23°C (74°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Sep 17°C (63°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 20°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 13°C (56°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 16°C (61°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 8°C (47°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 11°C (51°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Dec 5°C (42°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 7°C (45°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)


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