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

Should you visit York or Toulon?

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

Should I visit York or Toulon? 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 historic, medieval, and fanciful city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Toulon

Toulon is a authentic, off-the-beaten-path, and real world port city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for beaches, shopping, and museums.

York and Toulon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in York or Toulon?

Visitors will generally find more to do in York than Toulon. While Toulon is larger than York, York has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. York is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, and historical sights, while Toulon is known for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty. York is more touristy than Toulon and is known for its markets, old town, and its many ghost tours. It is also home to The Shambles. Toulon is popular for its old town, its coastal setting, and its popularity with local vacationers.

How is York different from Toulon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

York is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its museums and history.

Many visitors head to York specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Popular museums include the York Castle Museum, the National Railway Museum, Castle Howard, and JORVIK Viking Centre.

Toulon offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Many of the sights are found in the old town and harbor areas. Some of the most interesting attractions include the Opera House, the Allied Landings Museum, the Naval Museum, and Cathédrale Sainte-Marie-de-la-Seds.

Is the Food Better in York or Toulon? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

York is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its restaurants.

York has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Toulon has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a variety of cafes and restaurants that are found along the harbor or in the old town. Whether you want waterfront views or a charming street front cafe, there are great options available. Many restaurants offer local seafood but you'll also find pastries, traditional local food, a several Italian restaurants.

Is York or Toulon Better for Nightlife?

York is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for nightlife and partying.

York offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Toulon. It's a relatively large city and traditionally a sailor's town, so the city has a long running tradition of partying into the night. While it doesn't have the party-hard reputation of some places, you likely won't be bored at night. Head to the harbor area or the beaches around Mourillon for the most lively bars and cafes.

Is York or Toulon Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Toulon is a moderate port city for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, York is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Snorkeling is an option in Toulon. There are a few beaches in the area that are worth checking out with a mask and snorkel. You'll likely see some underwater life hanging out by the rocks in the quieter areas.

York is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is York or Toulon Better for Beaches?

Toulon is a popular place for its beaches. However, York is not a beach destination.

Toulon is a good option for a beach vacation. The beaches are sandy and less crowded than some of the more popular areas. The most accessible beach is Mourillon Beach which has public facilities and restaurants. If you're willing to venture a little farther from the center of town you'll find Mitre Beach which has some snorkeling. Battere Basse Beach is a bit quieter and also has snorkeling. Anse de Méjean is a popular spot with the locals.

York is not a beach destination.

Is York or Toulon Better for its Old Town?

York is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. However, Toulon is not a good port city for its old town.

With a famous historical old-town, York offers plenty to see. 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.

You can check out the historic old town in Toulon. The old town has plazas, terraced cafes, and plenty of outdoor shopping opportunities that visitors can enjoy.

Is the Shopping Better in York or Toulon?

Toulon is a well-known place for shopping. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Toulon is an extremely popular place for shoppers. If you're looking for traditional local shopping opportunities then this is your place. There are a number of traditional Provençal markets around town but the most famous is Cours Lafayette. You can shop with the locals looking for produce or flowers. There's also a weekend farmers market, Petit Cours, that is fun to explore.

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 Toulon Better for Families?

York is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

York is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Toulon is a family-friendly city. The city may be known as a hub for the French navy, but there are also activities that kids and adults alike can enjoy. There are several military themed museums, a few good beaches, and local shopping. There's also the enjoyable cable car ride that you can take to the top of Mont Faron as well as several nice seaside walks in the area.

Is York or Toulon Better for Couples?

York is a well-known place for romance. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its romantic activities.

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.

Toulon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will appreciate the walks along the coast or through the harbor. There are also nice restaurants, interesting art galleries, and a few good hotels around town that make for a nice couple's weekend.

Is York or Toulon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

York is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit York. 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Toulon. It doesn't have the reputation of many nearby towns along the French Riviera, so you can still find some affordable hostels and cafes in the area. You also won't find the crowds so you can enjoy a touch of the authentic local culture.

Is York or Toulon Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both York and Toulon offer good public transit options.

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

Toulon has some public transit options. There are buses as well as petits trains (little tourist trains) that you can take around town.

Is York or Toulon a more walkable city?

Toulon 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.

Toulon is very walkable. You can walk around the old town and harbor area where many of the sights are concentrated.

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 Toulon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Toulon or York?

How long in York or Toulon?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in York or Toulon to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in York than Toulon because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for York, and 1-2 days is enough time in Toulon.

Families should spend more time in York than Toulon. 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 Toulon. 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 Toulon 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.

One day in York or Toulon?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of York. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Toulon. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in York or Toulon?

York is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Toulon 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 Toulon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in York. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the authentic destination of Toulon. This port city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in York or Toulon?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the medieval destination of York. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

The off-the-beaten-path port city of Toulon offers nightlife 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, The Best Luxury Tours to France, and The Best Budget Tours to France.

When comparing the travel costs between York and Toulon, we can see that York 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 Toulon Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, York or Toulon?

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

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 Toulon in the Summer?

Both Toulon and York are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to York this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Toulon for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

York is cooler than Toulon in the summer. The daily temperature in York averages around 16°C (62°F) in July, and Toulon fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Toulon. York usually receives less sunshine than Toulon during summer. York gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Toulon receives 366 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, York usually receives more rain than Toulon. York gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit York or Toulon in the Autumn?

Both Toulon and York during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to York for the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Toulon in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, York is cooler than Toulon. Typically, the autumn temperatures in York in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Toulon averages at about 16°C (61°F).

In Toulon, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, York often gets less sunshine than Toulon. York gets 112 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulon receives 205 hours of full sun.

York usually gets less rain in October than Toulon. York gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit York or Toulon in the Winter?

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

York can get quite cold in the winter. In January, York is generally much colder than Toulon. Daily temperatures in York average around 4°C (39°F), and Toulon fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

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

In January, York usually receives less rain than Toulon. York gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit York or Toulon in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to York as well as Toulon. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Toulon because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

York is much colder than Toulon in the spring. The daily temperature in York averages around 8°C (46°F) in April, and Toulon fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Toulon. In the spring, York often gets less sunshine than Toulon. York gets 151 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulon receives 245 hours of full sun.

York usually gets less rain in April than Toulon. York gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Toulon and York