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

Should you visit Windsor or Nice?

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

Should I visit Windsor or Nice? 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. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the food, museums, and nightlife.

Nice

Nice is a beautiful, opulent, and trendy seaside destination. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. And you can't forget about the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Windsor and Nice: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Windsor Castle
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • 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
  • Quaint atmosphere


Is there more to do in Windsor or Nice?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Nice than Windsor, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Nice is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Windsor is more popular for its museums and small town charm. Nice is more touristy than Windsor and is known for its beachfront setting in the French Riviera as well as its popularity with A-list celebrities. Also, Nice is famous for The Promenade des Anglais. Windsor is well known for being home to the largest and oldest operating castle in the world.

How is Windsor different from Nice?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Windsor
Nice

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

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Windsor. 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.

Nice does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Windsor
Nice

Nice 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, Nice is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

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 Nice Better for Nightlife?

Windsor
Nice

Nice is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

People head to Nice just to party. 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.

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 Nice Better for Resorts?

Windsor
Nice

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

For the ultimate resort vacation, Nice is a great 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.

Windsor is not a resort destination.


Is Windsor or Nice Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Windsor
Nice

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

Nice has a few good snorkeling spots. There are some places where you can arrange a snorkeling or dive trip to explore the underwater setting.

Windsor is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Windsor or Nice Better for Beaches?

Windsor
Nice

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

Nice is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Windsor is not a beach destination.

Is Windsor or Nice Better for its Old Town?

Windsor
Nice

Nice 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 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.

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 Nice?

Windsor
Nice

Nice is well known for its shopping opportunities. However, Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Nice is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Windsor or Nice Better for Families?

Windsor
Nice

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Windsor or Nice.

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.

Nice offers lots of family activities. 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 Windsor or Nice Better for Couples?

Windsor
Nice

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

Nice makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

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 Nice Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Windsor
Nice

Nice is a popular place for backpackers. However, Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers 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.

Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Windsor
Nice

Nice is well known for its public transit. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Nice can get you around easily. There are both buses and trams.

While Windsor offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a bus system around town.

Is Windsor or Nice a more walkable city?

Windsor
Nice

Nice is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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

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


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

Should I spend more time in Nice or Windsor?

How long in Windsor or Nice?

In either Windsor or Nice, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Nice than Windsor because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Windsor, and 3-5 days is enough time in Nice.

Families should spend more time in Nice than Windsor. 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 Windsor. 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 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 Nice.


  • How many days in Windsor or Nice? Ideal Length of Stay
    Windsor 1-2 
    Nice 3-5

One day in Windsor or Nice?

Windsor is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Nice, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This seaside destination 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 Nice?

Windsor 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.

In Nice, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Windsor or Nice?

Windsor is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. This town offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Nice is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nice has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Windsor or Nice?

Because Windsor is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nice. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Nice. 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 10-Day Tours in France, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Nice 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 Nice is £112. 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 Nice in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Windsor £70
    Nice £51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Windsor £140
    Nice £102
Compare Hotels in Windsor and Nice

Looking for a hotel in Windsor or Nice? 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 Nice


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 Nice Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Windsor £66
    Nice £22

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 Nice

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Nice:

  • Arrival Transfer from Côte d'Azur Airport NCE to Nice City in Private Car: $44
  • Arrival Transfer from Nice Airport NCE to Nice city by Sedan: $59
  • Arrival Transfer: Nice Airport NCE to Cannes in Luxury Van: $116
  • Arrival Transfer: Nice Airport NCE to Monaco in Business Car: $109
  • Cruise Port Hercule to Monaco hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $91
  • Day Trip / transfer to and from aéroport Nice Côte d'Azur: $92
  • Departure Transfer: Monaco to Nice Airport NCE in Business Car: $109
  • Departure Transfer: Monaco to Nice Airport NCE in Luxury Van: $129
  • Departure Transfer: Villefranche Port to Nice Airport: $53
  • Ferry Transfer to Sainte Marguerite Island from Nice: $56
  • From Nice Airport: 1-Way Private Transfer to Monaco: $150
  • From Nice Airport: Private Transfer to Cannes: $128

Is it cheaper to fly into Windsor or Nice?

Prices for flights to both Nice 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
    Nice £42
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 Nice

Some typical examples of dining costs in Nice are as follows:


  • Slushee
    £2.14
  • Strawberries
    £3.42
  • Loaf of Bread
    £2.74

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Nice

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Nice.

  • Nice Small-Group Walking Food Tour with Local Specialties & Wine Tasting: $84
  • Viator Exclusive: Organic French Dinner in the Garden of Nice: $95
  • The Flavors of Nice Food Tour: $103
  • Old Nice Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $104
  • Nice Evening Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $104
  • Viator Exclusive: Local Cooking Class & Dinner with View of Nice: $107
  • 3.5-Hour Original Old Town Food Tour: $107
  • Private French Cooking Class with a Fun Local Noel: $112
  • PRIVATE Award-Winning Nice Food Tour: 6 or 10 Tastings: $112
  • Food Tour + Wine Pairing Lunch with a local Sommelier: $133
  • Half Day Afternoon Walking Food Tour with Dinner: $147
  • Dinner in the vineyard French Riviera: $192

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Windsor £26
    Nice £10

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 Nice

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

  • Vieux Nice : Discovery Stroll and Reading Walking Tour: $2.13
  • Nice : Discovery Stroll and Reading Walking Tour: $2.13
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Ticket to Musée National du Sport: $6.42
  • Monaco Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.52
  • Nice Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.55
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.95
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour: $6.95
  • Navigating A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Nice's Old Town Highlights: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Nice city tour: audio guide app in your smartphone: $7.49

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Windsor £7.55
    Nice £14

Sample the Local Flavors in Nice

Also in Nice, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Nice Bar Crawl | Best Bars In 1 Night! VIP + FREE SHOTS: $5.99
  • Pub Crawl Party with VIP Entry and Free Shots: $16
  • Pub Crawl Nice with Drinking Games and Optional Drink special: $17
  • Nice : Guided Pub / Bar Crawl with Shots and Nightclub Entry: $21
  • Riviera Bar Crawl Party with Free Shots and VIP Entry: $23
  • Nice Walking Tour with Wine Tasting: $45
  • New Year's Eve Pub Crawl with Shots and VIP Club Entry: $52
  • New Year’s Eve Bar Crawl Nice France: $53
  • Provence Organic Wine Tasting Half Day Tour from Nice: $65
  • Wine Tasting: Tour de France in Nice City Centre: $74
  • Half-Day Saint Paul de Vence and Wine Tasting Tour: $82
  • Half-Day Wine Tasting and Saint Paul de Vence Tour from Nice: $84


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

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


Which is Bigger, Windsor or Nice?

Nice has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Windsor. When comparing the sizes of Windsor 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 Windsor 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 Windsor or Nice in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Windsor and Nice. Many visitors come to Windsor in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Nice for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Windsor is cooler than Nice in the summer. The daily temperature in Windsor averages around 18°C (64°F) in July, and Nice fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

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


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

Should I visit Windsor or Nice in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Windsor as well as Nice. Most visitors come to Windsor for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Nice because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Windsor is cooler than Nice. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Windsor in October average around 12°C (53°F), and Nice averages at about 17°C (63°F).

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


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

Should I visit Windsor or Nice in the Winter?

Both Nice and Windsor are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Windsor because of the museums and the cuisine. Also, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Nice this time of year.

The weather in Windsor can be very cold. In January, Windsor is generally much colder than Nice. Daily temperatures in Windsor average around 4°C (40°F), and Nice fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

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


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

Should I visit Windsor or Nice in the Spring?

Both Nice and Windsor during the spring are popular places to visit. The small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Windsor this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Nice for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Windsor is cooler than Nice in the spring. The daily temperature in Windsor averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Nice fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

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


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

Typical Weather for Nice and Windsor

Windsor Nice
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)