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

Should you visit Windsor or Arles?

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

Should I visit Windsor or Arles? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Windsor

Windsor is a traditional, touristy, and beautiful town. Because it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors for a good reason. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and food.

Arles

Arles is a compact, quaint, and historic town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Windsor and Arles: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Windsor Castle
Things to Consider
  • Less popular old town
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Windsor or Arles?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Arles. Although Windsor and Arles are both popular with visitors, Arles has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Arles is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and shopping, while Windsor is known for its small town charm and impressive beauty. Windsor is more touristy than Arles and is known for being home to the largest and oldest operating castle in the world. Arles is popular for its Roman history and its influence over Vincent van Gogh. It is also home to L'Amphithéâtre Romain.

How is Windsor different from Arles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Windsor or Arles?

Windsor
Arles

Arles is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Arles are among the most recognizable in the world. It's a small town but it's filled with Roman ruins and remarkable landmarks. Popular sights include L'Amphithéâtre Romain, Les Alyscamps, Cloître Saint-Trophime, and Théâtre Antique.

Many visitors head to Windsor specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The main draw is the Windsor Castle, which many people explore in a few hours. Then you can pass some time wandering around the town.


Is the Food Better in Windsor or Arles? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Windsor
Arles

Arles is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Arles. The cuisine is heavily influenced by the region's local agriculture. Popular dishes include agriade (beef stew), tellines soup, and fougasse (a local bread).

Windsor is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are cafes, pubs, and local restaurants that let you sample regional dishes. There are also chain restaurants and international options including Japanese and Thai food.

Is Windsor or Arles Better for Nightlife?

Windsor
Arles

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Windsor and Arles.

Windsor has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There's a low key nightlife scene with local pubs and a theater. Dinner cruises are also a fun activity.

If you're looking for night time activities Arles has a few options to choose from. There are countless bars and pubs where you can enjoy a cold drink and a relaxing night out.

Is Windsor or Arles Better for its Old Town?

Windsor
Arles

Arles is a world-class destination for its old town. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

The historic old town of Arles is revered around the world. The large old town is filled with Roman ruins and historic sights. There are narrow streets and many interesting places to explore.

Windsor has an old town worth visiting. The old town is opposite the castle and caters specifically to tourists with its restaurants, pubs, and a few shops.


Is the Shopping Better in Windsor or Arles?

Windsor
Arles

Arles is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Arles offers some nice shopping areas. There are many boutiques that are filled with local art, crafts, and merchandise.

Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Windsor or Arles Better for Families?

Windsor
Arles

Windsor is very good for its family-friendly activities. However, Arles is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Windsor. Kids will enjoy seeing a working castle when they visit Windsor Castle. While a visit to Windsor Castle is the obvious draw to the town, there are also river cruises, parks, and even the Royal Windsor Maze at the Goswells Park that the whole family will enjoy. There is also a Legoland in the area for those who have more time.

For families, Arles is not always the best place to visit. Filled with Roman ruins and beautiful art, this is a great town, but can make for a long day for younger kids.

Is Windsor or Arles Better for Couples?

Windsor
Arles

With fun activities for couples, both Windsor and Arles make for a great place to visit.

Couples visit Windsor frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Exploring the Windsor Castle, taking a river cruise, and wandering the parks and gardens hand in hand make this a great place for a couples retreat.

Arles is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who enjoy history, roman ruins, and beautiful art will appreciate a weekend getaway to this town.


Is Windsor or Arles Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Windsor
Arles

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Windsor and Arles.

You'll find some public transit in Windsor, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a bus system around town.

While Arles offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are shuttle buses that run between the city center and the train station, which is less than a kilometer out of town.

Is Windsor or Arles a more walkable city?

Windsor
Arles

Windsor and Arles both are great when exploring on foot.

Windsor is a very walkable town. The town is compact and relatively easy to walk around. There are also several walking routes in the area.

Arles is a very walkable destination. It's a historic walled city that is very walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Windsor Worth Visiting? and Is Arles Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Arles or Windsor?

How long in Windsor or Arles?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Arles than Windsor 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 Arles.


  • How many days in Windsor or Arles? Ideal Length of Stay
    Windsor 1-2 
    Arles 1-2

One day in Windsor or Arles?

Even though Windsor is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Arles, 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 museums. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A weekend in Windsor or Arles?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Windsor. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

In Arles, 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 museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Arles has to offer.

Five days in Windsor or Arles?

Windsor is a fun place to experience. Windsor is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Arles 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.

A week in Windsor or Arles?

Windsor is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Arles. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Arles. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Contiki Tours to France, and The Best G Adventures Tours to France.


Which place is cheaper, Arles or Windsor?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Windsor is £150, while the average daily cost in Arles is £121. 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 Windsor and Arles in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Windsor £70
    Arles £61
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Windsor £140
    Arles £122
Compare Hotels in Windsor and Arles

Looking for a hotel in Windsor or Arles? 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 Windsor


Hotels in Arles


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: Windsor Hotel Prices and Arles Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Windsor £66
    Arles £20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Windsor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Windsor:

  • "Private Transfer: From London Heathrow Airport to Windsor": $56
  • London: Transfer to Southampton with Windsor Castle Visit: $161
  • London: Windsor Castle Private Tour with Hotel Transfers: $562
  • Windsor Castle Ticket & Private Transfer: $319

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Arles

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Arles:

  • Arles to Marseille Airport (MRS) - Departure Private Transfer: $117

Is it cheaper to fly into Windsor or Arles?

Prices for flights to both Arles and Windsor 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
    Windsor £39
    Arles £44
Typical Food Prices in Windsor

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Windsor:


  • Morning Tea
    £2.50

Typical Food Prices in Arles

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Arles:


  • Cooked Clams
    £3.85
  • Ice Cream
    £0.86

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Windsor £26
    Arles £26

Tours and Activities in Windsor

Here are a few actual costs in Windsor for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 1,000 Years of Royal History from Windsor to Eton: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Daily Walking Tour with Local Guide (11am & 2pm): $17
  • Windsor Daily Town Walking Tour: 11am & 2pm: $18
  • Windsor : Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz Tour App: $19
  • Golden Tours Open Top Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour: $24
  • Windsor Hop-on Hop-off Open Top Bus Tour: $24
  • Windsor Duck Tour: Bus and Boat Ride: $34
  • Windsor Quest: Self Guided Sightseeing & Immersive Treasure Hunt: $37
  • Windsor and Thames Valley Bike Tour: $38
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort: Entrance Ticket: $44
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort 2 Day Admission Ticket: $66
  • Windsor Castle Afternoon Tour from London: $86

Typical Entertainment Prices in Arles

Here are a few typical costs in Arles for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Castle Entrance Fee
    £4.71

Tours and Activities in Arles

Here are a few actual costs in Arles for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Provence Region Roman Abbey of Montmajour Entrance Ticket: $7.64
  • City tour 45mn of the city, its history, its monuments,: $70
  • City tour 1 hour of the city, its history, its monuments,: $84
  • From Avignon: Arles, Les Baux-de-Provence & Saint-Rémy Tour: $106
  • Arles 2-Hour Private Walking Tour: $187
  • 2-Hour Private Walking Tour: $201
  • Half Day Private Guided Tour of Arles: $202
  • Private Guided Tour of Arles: $218
  • Art and History Walking Tour: $299
  • Arles Private guided walking tour from Marseille: $342
  • Arles, Saint-Rémy & Les Baux De Provence: Guided Tour: $1,176

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Windsor £7.55
    Arles £21

Sample the Local Flavors in Arles

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

  • Lavender Field & Distillery Tour between Nimes & Arles: $6.20


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

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


Which is Bigger, Windsor or Arles?

Arles has a larger population, and is about 89% larger than the population of Windsor. When comparing the sizes of Windsor and Arles, 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 Windsor or Arles?

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 Windsor or Arles in the Summer?

Both Arles and Windsor are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Windsor this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Arles for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Windsor is cooler than Arles. Typically, the summer temperatures in Windsor in July average around 18°C (64°F), and Arles averages at about 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Arles. Windsor usually receives less sunshine than Arles during summer. Windsor gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while Arles receives 354 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Windsor usually receives more rain than Arles. Windsor gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Arles receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Windsor 18°C (64°F) 
    Arles 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Arles in the Autumn?

Both Arles and Windsor during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Windsor for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Arles in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Windsor is generally cooler than Arles. Daily temperatures in Windsor average around 12°C (53°F), and Arles fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Windsor often gets less sunshine than Arles. Windsor gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arles receives 178 hours of full sun.

Arles gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Windsor usually gets less rain in October than Arles. Windsor gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Arles receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Windsor 12°C (53°F) 
    Arles 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Arles in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Windsor and Arles. Many visitors come to Windsor in the winter for the museums and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Arles for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Windsor can get quite cold in the winter. Windsor is much colder than Arles in the winter. The daily temperature in Windsor averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Arles fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Windsor usually receives less sunshine than Arles during winter. Windsor gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while Arles receives 146 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Windsor usually receives less rain than Arles. Windsor gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Arles receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Windsor 4°C (40°F) 
    Arles 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Arles in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Windsor as well as Arles. Most visitors come to Windsor for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Arles because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Windsor is cooler than Arles. Typically, the spring temperatures in Windsor in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Arles averages at about 13°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Arles. In the spring, Windsor often gets less sunshine than Arles. Windsor gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arles receives 218 hours of full sun.

Windsor usually gets less rain in April than Arles. Windsor gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Arles receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Windsor 9°C (48°F) 
    Arles 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Arles and Windsor

Windsor Arles
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 52 mm (2 in) 7°C (44°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (50°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 13°C (56°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
May 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in) 17°C (63°F) 60 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 51 mm (2 in) 21°C (69°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 24°C (75°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in) 23°C (74°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in) 20°C (69°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 16°C (61°F) 130 mm (5.1 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 11°C (51°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Dec 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 7°C (45°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)