A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers York vs. Aix-en-Provence for Food, Families, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit York or Aix-en-Provence?

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

Should I visit York or Aix-en-Provence? 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.

York

York is a fanciful, historic, and medieval city. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a historic, vibrant, and laid-back town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums.

York and Aix-en-Provence: Pros and Cons

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


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in York than Aix-en-Provence, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. York is better known for its museums, nightlife, and historical sights, while Aix-en-Provence is more popular for its shopping and impressive beauty. York is more touristy than Aix-en-Provence and is known for its markets, old town, and its many ghost tours. Also, York is famous for The Shambles. Aix-en-Provence is well known for its Provençal cuisine made with local produce, its many art galleries, and its beautiful fountains and square.

How is York 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 York. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

York
Aix-en-Provence

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

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to York can be an interesting and educational experience. Popular museums include the York Castle Museum, the National Railway Museum, Castle Howard, and JORVIK Viking Centre.

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 York or Aix-en-Provence? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

York
Aix-en-Provence

Foodies will find both York and Aix-en-Provence both to be fantastic destinations.

For foodies, York is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Meat pies, fudge, and fish and chips are just some of the culinary experiences you'll find here. The Shambles Market has vendors that sell a wide variety of cuisines. There are also food trucks throughout town that offer affordable and delicious meal options.

Aix-en-Provence has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

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

York
Aix-en-Provence

York is well known for its evening party scene. However, Aix-en-Provence is not particularly known for nightlife.

York is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The young population and thriving tourist scene means there's no shortage of nightlife around town. Check out a pub or music venue to experience everything that city has to offer.

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.

Is York or Aix-en-Provence Better for its Old Town?

York
Aix-en-Provence

York is terrific for its historic old town charm. However, Aix-en-Provence does not have a historic old town.

York has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The charming old town is filled with shops and restaurants. There are street performers, fudge shops, and all of the Harry Potter merchandise that a person could need.

Aix-en-Provence does not have a historic old town.


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

York
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Aix-en-Provence is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting York. The old town has many great candy stores that sell fudge and other local specialties. There are also Harry Potter stores that sell potions, t-shirts, games, and more.

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

York
Aix-en-Provence

York is terrific for its family-friendly activities. However, Aix-en-Provence is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

York is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. The city does an amazing job bringing history to life in a way that kids will enjoy. The JORVIK Viking Centre transports visitors back in time and introduces them to a fully immersive viking experience. The York Dungeon is great for older kids as long as they don't scare easily. Actors and special effects offer a terrifying and entertaining visit through a York dungeon. Harry Potter fans will enjoy exploring the potion shops and broomstick stores along the iconic Shambles, which is said to be an inspiration for J.K. Rowling's Diagon Alley.

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.

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

York
Aix-en-Provence

With fun activities for couples, both York and Aix-en-Provence make for a very good place to visit.

York is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples can explore the history and entertainment venues that make York an enjoyable destination. There are museums, restaurants, and outdoor markets that make this a great weekend getaway.

Aix-en-Provence makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 York or Aix-en-Provence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

York
Aix-en-Provence

York is well known for backpackers. Also, Aix-en-Provence is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

York is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There are a few hostels around town as well as nightlife venues and entertainment spots that appeal to backpackers and younger travelers. For great and affordable food, grab a meal at one of the many food trucks around town.

Aix-en-Provence is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels and cheap hotels that are good options for backpackers.

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

York
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a well-known place for students. However, York is not popular with students.

Aix-en-Provence is a very popular town for students and younger travelers. It's a university town with a lively but laid-back atmosphere. It's also a popular study abroad destination for American university students.

York is not popular with students.

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

York
Aix-en-Provence

Both York and Aix-en-Provence offer notable public transit options.

York has a few public transit options. There is a reliable and efficient bus system around town.

Aix-en-Provence has some public transit options. For the places you can't reach on foot, there is a bus network.


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

York
Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a well-known place for its walkability. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

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

York is a somewhat walkable place. The old town has many pedestrian streets that are easily explored on food.

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

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

How long in York or Aix-en-Provence?

It's fun to spend time in either York or Aix-en-Provence. In our opinion, York has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in York than Aix-en-Provence. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

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


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

One day in York or Aix-en-Provence?

The fanciful destination of York offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Aix-en-Provence. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in York or Aix-en-Provence?

The city of York offers food and shopping. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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.

Aix-en-Provence 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.


Five days in York or Aix-en-Provence?

York is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. This city offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find shopping and museums around the historic destination of Aix-en-Provence. This town offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in York or Aix-en-Provence?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting York. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

The laid-back town of Aix-en-Provence offers museums and food. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from London, The Best 10-Day Tours from Edinburgh, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in France, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in France.


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

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

The average daily cost (per person) in York is £106, while the average daily cost in Aix-en-Provence is £118. 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 York and Aix-en-Provence in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    York £59
    Aix-en-Provence £69
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    York £118
    Aix-en-Provence £138
Compare Hotels in York and Aix-en-Provence

Looking for a hotel in York 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 York


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

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    York £12
    Aix-en-Provence £28

Hired Cars and Shuttles in York

Some specific examples of transportation prices in York:

  • Private Transfer from Hambleton to Manchester Airport (MAN): $163
  • Private Transfer from Hull to Manchester Airport (MAN): $271
  • Private Transfer from York to Manchester Airport (MAN): $279

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Aix-en-Provence

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

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

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

Prices for flights to both Aix-en-Provence and York 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
    York £32
    Aix-en-Provence £28
Typical Food Prices in York

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


  • Dinner
    £22

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in York

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

  • Breakfast Food Tour in York: $51
  • Party Cruise with Welcome Drink, Dinner, and DJ Music: $56
  • York on a Fork Food Tour: $83

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
    £40

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.
    York £11
    Aix-en-Provence £19

Tours and Activities in York

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

  • York Guide - Everybody Hates a Tourist: $6.35
  • Tower Tour: $7.63
  • Romans, Vikings and Medieval Marvels in A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Discover York's Legacy: In-App Audio Tour of the City Walls: $11
  • York Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour: $11
  • Private York Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • York Cocoa Works Guided Tour and Tasting: $12
  • Harry Potter Guided Walking Tour: $12
  • Self-Guided City Sightseeing Treasure Hunt: $12
  • Original Harry Potter Locations Tour - York: $13
  • York Bird of Prey Centre Entry Ticket: $14
  • City Chronicles Historical Walking Tour: $15

Tours and Activities in Aix-en-Provence

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

  • A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Scavenger Hunt and Self-Guided Tour: $9.84
  • Provencal Market Walking Tour with Tastings: $37
  • Provençal Farmers market tour: $38
  • Guided Tour in Historical Old City: $60
  • Guided Foodie Tour with Tastings: $70
  • E-Bike tour of Sainte Victoire Mountain, Aix-en-Provence: $70
  • E-Bike Tour of Mount Sainte-Victoire: $73
  • Gourmet & Cultural Tour Aix En Provence English / Espanol: $73
  • An Aix-traordinary Walking City Tour of Aix-en-Provence: $75
  • 2-Hour Foodie Tour with 10 Tastings in Aix-en-Provence: $76
  • Time flies by on this Aixquisite Walking Tour of Aix-en-Provence : $76

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    York £13
    Aix-en-Provence £12
Typical Alcohol Prices in York

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in York are as follows:


  • A Couple Beers
    £9.00

Sample the Local Flavors in York

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in York:

  • Hooting Owl Distillery York - Distillery Tour & Guided Tasting: $32
  • Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $47
  • The Full Hoot Distillery Tour & Guided Hooting Owl Experience: $57

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 comparing the travel costs between York and Aix-en-Provence, we can see that Aix-en-Provence is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


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

Aix-en-Provence has a larger population, and is about 2% larger than the population of York. When comparing the sizes of York 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 York or Aix-en-Provence?

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 York or Aix-en-Provence in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both York and Aix-en-Provence. Many travelers come to York for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Aix-en-Provence in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, York is generally cooler than Aix-en-Provence. Daily temperatures in York average around 16°C (62°F), and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Aix-en-Provence this time of the year. York usually receives less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence during summer. York gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Aix-en-Provence receives 366 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, York usually receives more rain than Aix-en-Provence. York gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    York 16°C (62°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 24°C (75°F)

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

The autumn brings many poeple to York as well as Aix-en-Provence. Many visitors come to York in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Aix-en-Provence for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

York is cooler than Aix-en-Provence in the autumn. The daily temperature in York averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Aix-en-Provence. In the autumn, York often gets less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence. York gets 112 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aix-en-Provence receives 205 hours of full sun.

York usually gets less rain in October than Aix-en-Provence. York gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    York 11°C (52°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 16°C (61°F)

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

Both Aix-en-Provence and York are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to York for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Aix-en-Provence because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

York can be very cold during winter. In the winter, York is much colder than Aix-en-Provence. Typically, the winter temperatures in York in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Aix-en-Provence averages at about 7°C (44°F).

York usually receives less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence during winter. York gets 61 hours of sunny skies, while Aix-en-Provence receives 150 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, York usually receives around the same amount of rain as Aix-en-Provence. York gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    York 4°C (39°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 7°C (44°F)

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

Both Aix-en-Provence and York during the spring are popular places to visit. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Aix-en-Provence this time of year.

In April, York is generally much colder than Aix-en-Provence. Daily temperatures in York average around 8°C (46°F), and Aix-en-Provence fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In Aix-en-Provence, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, York often gets less sunshine than Aix-en-Provence. York gets 151 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aix-en-Provence receives 245 hours of full sun.

York usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Aix-en-Provence. York gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Aix-en-Provence receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    York 8°C (46°F) 
    Aix-en-Provence 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Aix-en-Provence and York

York Aix-en-Provence
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 8°C (46°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (50°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (56°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 50 mm (2 in) 17°C (63°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Jun 15°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 21°C (69°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 16°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 24°C (75°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Aug 16°C (61°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 23°C (74°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 20°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 16°C (61°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 11°C (51°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 7°C (45°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)