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

Should you visit Windsor or Cannes?

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

Should I visit Windsor or Cannes? 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 beautiful, royal, and traditional town. Because it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors for a good reason. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and food.

Cannes

Cannes is a glitzy, opulent , and luxury resort city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Windsor and Cannes: 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 for food
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Windsor or Cannes?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cannes. Although Windsor and Cannes are both popular with visitors, Cannes has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cannes is more popular for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and shopping, while Windsor is known for its museums, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Cannes is more touristy than Windsor and is known for its popularity with celebrities and its role as host for the international film festival. It is also home to Boulevard de la Croisette. Windsor is popular for being home to the largest and oldest operating castle in the world.

How is Windsor different from Cannes?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Windsor
Cannes

Windsor is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Cannes does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Cannes does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Windsor
Cannes

Cannes is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Cannes is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The city is known for its fresh seafood and produce, local markets, and innovative chefs. There are also a number of traditional dishes that you should try in town including bouillabaisse, daube, and farcis niçois.

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 Cannes Better for Nightlife?

Windsor
Cannes

Cannes is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Cannes is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife scene is all about the glamour and prestige that this city is known for. There are exclusive nightclubs and luxury cocktail bars where the goal is to see and be seen. Parties last late into the night and the glitz and glamour fill the streets.

If you're looking for night time activities Windsor has a few options to choose from. There's a low key nightlife scene with local pubs and a theater. Dinner cruises are also a fun activity.

Is Windsor or Cannes Better for Music?

Windsor
Cannes

Cannes is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Windsor is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Cannes The city is famous for its music festivals, but there are also many bands, DJs, and performers who visit year round.

Windsor is not a live music destination.


Is Windsor or Cannes Better for Resorts?

Windsor
Cannes

Cannes is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Windsor is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Cannes is a great choice. The city is filled with luxury resorts and elegant hotels. Among the best are Hôtel Martinez, Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic, and Five Seas Hotel.

Windsor is not a resort destination.

Is Windsor or Cannes Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Windsor
Cannes

Cannes is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Windsor is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Cannes has a few good snorkeling spots. You can arrange scuba diving and snorkeling trips from a few vendors in town. You might see sponges, sea slugs octopus, cuttlefish, lobsters and even stingrays.

Windsor is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Windsor or Cannes Better for Beaches?

Windsor
Cannes

Cannes is well known for the beache. However, Windsor is not a beach destination.

Cannes is considered a top beach destination. You can choose from both public and private beaches in the area. You'll find more amenities and convenience at the private beaches which are closer to La Croisette (the main promenade in town). These beaches also come with a price tag attached. The public beaches have a more relaxed and natural vibe but are a little less convenient to get to.

Windsor is not a beach destination.


Is Windsor or Cannes Better for its Old Town?

Windsor
Cannes

Cannes is well known for its old town. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Cannes. Known as Le Suquet, the old town has many historic landmarks including the the Château de la Castre. There are also cobblestone streets and many great restaurants around town.

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 Cannes?

Windsor
Cannes

Cannes is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

The abundance of shops in Cannes make it a world-class shopping destination. With its many affluent visitors, the shopping scene in town is filled with luxury brands and posh boutiques. Perfume and porcelain are both popular things to buy in the area.

Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Windsor or Cannes Better for Families?

Windsor
Cannes

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Windsor or Cannes.

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.

Cannes offers lots of family activities. Most people associate the city with the film festival and late night partying, but there are also kid-friendly restaurants, fun beach activities, and plenty of kid-friendly entertainment along La Croisette Boulevard. Make sure you check out the Grand Carousel and the many playgrounds around town.


Is Windsor or Cannes Better for Couples?

Windsor
Cannes

Cannes is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Cannes makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It's grand hotels and luxury beach clubs make this a perfect romantic destination. There are world class restaurants, a vibrant nightlife scene, and many romantic spots around town that make for a memorable honeymoon or couple's getaway.

Windsor is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

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

Windsor
Cannes

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

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 Cannes offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses that travel around the city.

Is Windsor or Cannes a more walkable city?

Windsor
Cannes

Windsor and Cannes 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.

Cannes is a very walkable destination. Many areas are easily explored on foot including the historic areas and the coastline.


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

Should I spend more time in Cannes or Windsor?

How long in Windsor or Cannes?

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

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

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

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


  • How many days in Windsor or Cannes? Ideal Length of Stay
    Windsor 1-2 
    Cannes 2-4

One day in Windsor or Cannes?

Windsor might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Cannes, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This resort city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Windsor or Cannes?

Windsor 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.

In Cannes, you'll find shopping and nightlife. 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cannes has to offer.

Five days in Windsor or Cannes?

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

Cannes is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Cannes?

Windsor is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cannes. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Cannes. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Bicycle Tours in France, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in France.


Which place is cheaper, Cannes 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 Cannes is £117. 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 Cannes in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Windsor £70
    Cannes £64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Windsor £140
    Cannes £128
Compare Hotels in Windsor and Cannes

Looking for a hotel in Windsor or Cannes? 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 Cannes


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 Cannes Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Windsor £66
    Cannes £14

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
  • Windsor Castle Ticket & Private Transfer: $319
  • London: Windsor Castle Private Tour with Hotel Transfers: $562

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cannes

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cannes:

  • Cannes Hotels to Nice Intl Airport NCE Departure Private Transfer: $87
  • Cannes Private Transfer from Cannes city centre to Nice Airport: $295
  • Cannes-Mandelieu Airport (CEQ) to Port de la Santé- Round-Trip Private Transfer: $175
  • Cannes-Mandelieu Airport (CEQ): Transfer to Port de la Santé: $433
  • Private Transfer to/from Marseille: $310
  • Private Transfer to/from Monaco: $181
  • Private Transfer to/from Saint-Tropez: $225
  • Round-Trip Boat Transfer to Saint Tropez: $78
  • Copenhagen: One Way Transfer to & from International Airport: $71
  • Departure Transfer: Cannes to Nice Airport NCE in Business Car: $103
  • From 1-Way Private Transfer to Nice Airport: $128
  • Mandelieu to St Tropez Round Trip Ferry Transfer: $95

Is it cheaper to fly into Windsor or Cannes?

Prices for flights to both Cannes 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
    Cannes £39
Typical Food Prices in Windsor

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


  • Morning Tea
    £2.50

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

Tours and Activities in Cannes

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

  • Cannes Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $9.84
  • Explore Guided walking Tour with a local guide: $37
  • Cannes Discovery: walking Tour Led by a Local Expert: $38
  • Scenic Coves RIB Boat Tour: $48
  • Boat and Snorkeling Tour: $48
  • Cannes Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: $52
  • Guided Tour in Cannes by a Screenwriter: History, Glamour & Cinema: $55
  • 1 or 2-Hour Gyropod Tour: $58
  • Exclusive 2 hours City Tour in Cannes in a Vintage Bus: $64
  • City Tour in Cannes aboard our Classic French Bus!: $65
  • Half Day Tour in Cannes, Antibes and St Paul de Vence: $65
  • Cannes 2.5-Hour E-bike Tour: $74

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Windsor £7.55
    Cannes £15

Sample the Local Flavors in Cannes

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

  • St Paul de Vence, Antibes & Wine Tasting from Cannes: $130
  • Grasse, Valbonne & Gourdon: Day Tour with Wine Tasting: $139
  • French Riviera: Provencal Wine Tours: $759
  • Wine Tasting, Cannes, Coco Chanel, Perfume Factory & Grasse: $1,273


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Windsor and Cannes, we can see that Windsor is more expensive. And not only is Cannes much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cannes would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cannes 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 Cannes.

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


Which is Bigger, Windsor or Cannes?

Cannes has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Windsor. When comparing the sizes of Windsor and Cannes, 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 Cannes?

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 Cannes in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Windsor and Cannes. The small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Windsor this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Cannes for the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Windsor is cooler than Cannes. Typically, the summer temperatures in Windsor in July average around 18°C (64°F), and Cannes averages at about 23°C (73°F).

In July, Windsor usually receives more rain than Cannes. Windsor gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Cannes receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Windsor 18°C (64°F) 
    Cannes 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Cannes in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Windsor as well as Cannes. Many travelers come to Windsor for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Cannes in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Windsor is generally cooler than Cannes. Daily temperatures in Windsor average around 12°C (53°F), and Cannes fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

It's quite rainy in Cannes. Windsor usually gets less rain in October than Cannes. Windsor gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Cannes receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Windsor 12°C (53°F) 
    Cannes 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Cannes in the Winter?

Both Cannes and Windsor are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Windsor in the winter for the museums and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Cannes for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

Windsor can get quite cold in the winter. Windsor is much colder than Cannes in the winter. The daily temperature in Windsor averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Cannes fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In January, Windsor usually receives less rain than Cannes. Windsor gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Cannes receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Windsor 4°C (40°F) 
    Cannes 9°C (48°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Cannes in the Spring?

Both Cannes and Windsor during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Windsor for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Cannes because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

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

Windsor usually gets less rain in April than Cannes. Windsor gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Cannes receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Typical Weather for Cannes and Windsor

Windsor Cannes
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 52 mm (2 in) 9°C (48°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 9°C (49°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 13°C (56°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
May 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in) 16°C (62°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 51 mm (2 in) 20°C (68°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 23°C (73°F) 16 mm (0.6 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in) 23°C (73°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in) 21°C (69°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 17°C (63°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 12°C (54°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Dec 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 10°C (49°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)