For many, it's surprising to hear that the interior mountains of Spain have a variety of ski areas. Horseback riding, hiking, canyoning, rock climbing, rafting, and snow skiing are popular activities in the mountain regions, especially around the Alps in the east. Madrid: The city has a mix of flavors that come from all of Spain. One week is often enough time to do most activities. Spain is a great place to explore. Malaga: The city has some of the most active nightlife in Europe. From the mountains to the coastline, visitors can experience bungee jumping, mountain biking, paragliding, zip-lines, ropes courses, rock climbing, canyoning, whitewater rafting, and more. MNAC is a great place to learn about the local Catalan art and history. Spain Travel Guide (Updated 2023) - Nomadic Matt's Travel Site $34, Timanfaya National Park and La Geria Wine Tasting:
Spain tends to offer a wider variety of resorts than France. So many destinations in this large country are perfect for couples looking to get away on a romantic trip, or even a honeymoon. But the sheer diversity of sights and destinations means that budget travelers or backpackers can find low cost food, activities, and accommodations in most places around the country. It's reasonable to spend a similar number of days in either one. Spain is a gorgeous, friendly, and diverse country. "We quite often go to Spain for the day," he says. Spain is very touristy. Across northern Andalusia, you can find even more mountains north of Seville and Cordoba, with several national parks and wilderness areas. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Among the best are Htel Martinez, Htel Barrire Le Majestic, and Five Seas Hotel. In general, France has a stronger economy than Spain, and the higher cost of living translates into higher prices for visitors. In Valencia, kids will love the Oceanografic aquarium and the Bioparc zoo. Also in Barcelona, the Gran Teatre del Liceu is a large historic venue with a gorgeous interior that hosts a variety of productions. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience. France Or Spain: The Honest Comparison [2023] You Need! Some areas are more party-oriented, while others offer a calm, relaxing vibe, or family-friendly activities. There are international luxury brands as well as local designer boutiques. The city also hosts many street fiestas and music festivals. Shopping is a popular activity when visiting France. In general, accommodation in Spain is cheaper than in France, although there are some exceptions. The nightlife scene really is varied enough that there's something for everyone. $5.66, San Sebastian: Hop-On Hop-Off City Tour Train:
As the most visited country in the world, travelers will find a huge number of modern and luxurious hotels, along with great public transport, plenty of taxis and tour companies, and an amazing selection of restaurants and cafes. The city's popularity coupled with its already high cost of living makes affordable accommodation hard to come by. Should I visit Spain or France? Barcelona, Madrid, the costal cities, and small towns all have plenty of hostels, pensions, and guest houses. You'll also find great fresh local dishes at the many restaurants. But no matter where you choose to go, the beach resorts in Spain are world-class and draw plenty of visitors every year. Most people come for the beaches. Malaga: From an endless supply of hostels to plenty of opportunities to meet other backpackers, this is a very backpacker friendly area. There's also a zoo and nature reserve for wildlife enthusiasts. $5.66, Nice: Digital Self-Guided Sightseeing Tour:
Concerning social values, family is as important in France as it is in Spain, although less conservative. In Seville, the Real Alcazar has fascinating architecture. How can they be different? The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Paris: It's a big city, so it's easy to get lost in the chaos, but there are many hostels and other backpacker hangouts around town. Cost of living in France compared to Spain. Finally, you'll find that the area around Avenida de Brasil is where famous DJs often perform. The most popular airport connections are found in Madrid and Barcelona. $17, Beaune: Wine Tasting at Chteau de Pommard:
. Spain is considered a Latino country we live more each day as it could be the last one than the French do. And don't miss the Canary Islands, where you'll find even more great activities. See also Barcelona: The Ultimate Travel Planning Guide. Also, you can see Flamenco shows at small, intimate venues around Madrid and other cities, too. No matter where you visit, it's easy to combine all of the best features of Spain into one terrific and romantic trip. Tapas are perhaps the most famous Spanish culinary export. Nice: The cuisine brings together fresh regional ingredients and mixes Provenal and Nioise flavors. France is a very comfortable and luxurious destination with plenty of hotels, restaurants, and activities. Every region of Spain offers something unique and special, so make sure you add some of these places to your itinerary. Also the meals are different but seems like France may have been a bit more affordable for what you get. Louis Vuitton in France. $23, Jerez: Live Flamenco Show with Optional Dinner:
Want to know which country is better for taxes, which one has a cheaper cost of living and which offers more diverse culture and landscapes? There are 5 ski resorts in the area (Grands Montets, Les Houches, Le Tour/Balme, La Flegere and Le Brevent) and many options for expert skiers. Some typical examples of dining costs in Spain are as follows: Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Spain. The beach areas on the southern and western coastline are home to numerous resorts, especially once you get away from the historic towns and move a bit further along the coast. Spain and France have great weather, low cost of living, good food, great healthcare, and cheaper real estate. This is just a small sample, as you'll find even more museums in Bilbao, Malaga, Granada, and other cities around the country, too. 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. $20, La Cit du Vin Skip-the-Line Entrance Ticket & Wine Tasting:
There is beautiful architecture as well as wine tours and breathtaking hot air balloon rides. Barcelona, Spain Infrastructure The infrastructure in France is second to none; well-designed buildings, superb roads, and modern hospitals. Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Spain. By clicking the link and making a purchase, we may receive a small commission, but this does not affect the price of your purchase. Saint-Tropez: The Gulf of Saint Tropez is one of the best places to snorkel and scuba dive along the French Riviera. Cost of living in Barcelona, Spain is about the same as in Madrid. Skydiving and bungee jumping are also popular in the countryside. The Asturias region on the northern coast is popular for many of the same reasons. Rightly so, because this country is modern and offers a wide array of comfortable modes of travel and vacationing. Or, if you're just looking for a quick weekend getaway, any of the major cities or smaller towns offers plenty of charming activities. Both countries are also relatively large with a diverse and varied landscape. Almost any store you could want is in or around the old town and the two main shopping centers in town are McArthur Glen and A l'Usine. And not only is Spain much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. $5.70, Dijon: Self-Guided City Walking Tour:
Andaluca is a popular destination because it combines the beaches with historic towns, mountain retreats, and fantastic food. $62, Valencia: Flamenco Show with Dinner at La Bulera:
I am fully wrong here? The southern coastline, known as the French Riviera, is a nice place for snorkeling and scuba diving because of the clear waters and warm weather. $17, Lanzarote: Wine Tour and Tasting under the Volcano:
Or, you could decide to spend more money in Spain 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 average cinema ticket in Spain costs . Here you'll find epic views, hiking, camping, wildlife viewing, mountain biking, ski resorts, and more. The Catalan coast north of Barcelona is especially beautiful with small towns, cliffs along the sea, and historical sites. France vs. Spain: Which is best to Travel? & + Like What are the cheapest places in Spain or France? The mountains also have national parks with wide open spaces which are great for family hikes, bike rides, camping, and road trips. Accommodation In Spain Is Cheaper Than France Surfing is popular along both coasts, and not just where the water is clear and blue. If you don't like where you're at, be willing to change. Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Spain: Some specific examples of transportation prices in Spain: Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in France: Some specific examples of transportation prices in France: Prices for flights to both France and Spain change regularly based on dates and travel demand. Covid-19 Brexit Politics Opinion Reader questions Jobs For members MOVING TO FRANCE France v Spain: which is the better place to move to? Make sure you try the paella, croquettes, and Jamon Iberico. Both Spain and France are good shopping destinations. Experienced skiers and snowboarders will be quite pleased with the amenities and variety of ski runs in this region of France, as the Alps are second to none when it comes to skiing. You'll find world class beauty here as well. $48, Barcelona: Paella Cooking Experience + Boqueria Market Tour:
France is very popular with students. $17, Barcelona: Estrella Damm Old Brewery Tour with Tasting:
Some of the links on this website are sponsored or affiliate links which help to financially support this site. Also, the Caminito del Rey has amazing trails along cliffs near Malaga. Change currency (USD) pay 10.4 % less for groceries Show 8 more.. Why is car rental so cheap in Spain? - Rentalcars.com Enjoy Barcelona Like Madrid, Barcelona is famous for its partying, late-night eating, and historic streets. France has amazing and huge cities with tons of activities and things to do. Most people come for the beaches. $37, Valencia: Surprise Winery Visit with Wine Tasting:
If you don't have a car, it's also easy and often affordable to rent or hire one at the airport upon arrival. Particularly during the winter months you'll find hearty stews like patatas en ajopollo and gurullos con conejo, which is prepared with rabbit. Some typical examples of dining costs in France are as follows: Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in France. Every city is proud of the food they serve, and you'll find regional specials throughout the nation, too. Also, keep in mind that Spain offers a handful of ski resorts open in the winter months, as well as some relaxing inland retreats outside of major cities and historical areas. Madrid: The many hostels around town make it easy for backpackers to find affordable accommodation while also meeting other travelers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. There are deep offshore reefs that you can explore as well as shallower wrecks and caves. But don't assume that the beaches are the only thing to see for families, as the big cities and mountains have plenty of activities as well. The other major cities each have their own vibe, especially along the southern coastal destinations of Marseille, Nice, and Biarritz where beach-goers turn towards nightclubs at sundown. Food. Each country has a lot to offer visitors with its own unique culture, cuisine, and atmosphere. For a relaxing beach holiday, both Spain and France are good choices. $10, Barcelona: Pub Crawl with Shots and Cocktail:
Several national parks are found on the Canary Islands and make the trip there even more interesting if you have the time. Lyon: It is a very livable city with many fun cultural activities for students. The Sierra Nevada mountains in the south are some of the most beautiful, and are also easily accessible. Along the Atlantic coast, you'll find even more diversity. While Paris is the obvious choice for its bars, clubs, theatre, and shows, the rest of France offers plenty of nightlife, too. $68, Lyon 2.5-Hour Dinner Cruise:
$85, Paris: Dinner with Customized Wine Selection:
Bunol, near Valencia, is the location of the famous annual tomato fight. The most popular places to visit in Madrid include the Prado museum, the Royal Palace, the Crystal Palace in Retiro park, and sometimes the football museum at the Real Madrid football stadium. Marbella: The area has luxury resorts, nice beaches, water sports, golf, and water activities that are perfect for a honeymoon or a romantic weekend or a honeymoon. Paris: A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway. Cars may be bought in Spain by residents or by non-residents owning a property in Spain, renting a property for a minimum of a year or registered as an inhabitant of . Italy vs Spain: Budget. Plenty of backpackers visit France. Furthermore, even the small towns in the countryside have historic sights such as the numerous chateaus, castles, winery villages, and more. When choosing a destination, it is important to compare hotel prices in order to get the best deal. Cost Of Living Comparison Between France And Spain - Numbeo Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Spain are as follows: Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Spain are as follows: Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in France are as follows: Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for France are as follows: Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Spain: Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Spain: Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in France: Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in France: When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Spain and France, we can see that France is more expensive. From the popular coastlines to the rugged interior, Spain is full of history, natural beauty, vibrant people, amazing cities, unique cuisines, and gorgeous views. Local favorites include roast suckling pig, Spanish omelette, and meat and chickpea stew. Look into all of your transportation options. The Louvre in Paris can't be missed, as it offers a huge collection of art, historical artifacts, and cultural items that would take several days to peruse. Burberry in London. - Quora. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style. Malaga is on the southern coast, but still boats some terrific lights and decorations for the holidays. A few of the most popular small towns to visit include Ronda with its dramatic cliffs, Besalu and it's bridge and castle-like gate, Cudillero on the northern coast, and Morella with its castle. 1 Why Spain Isand Isn'tCheap 2 Breaking Down the Cost of Travel in Spain 2.1 Accommodation 2.2 Transportation 2.3 Tapas and sangria (and other food/drink) 2.4 Shopping 2.5 Excursions and activities 3 So, is Vacationing in Spain Expensive? Numerous destinations in the interior of France also offer resort-like amenities, such as the options near Disneyland Paris or some of the historic castles which have been renovated into hotels. ), fresh ingredients, and unique local flavors. France is a destination which hosts a huge number of visitors. Beach vacations are one of the first things that come to mind for a family holiday or vacation to Spain. Some of the best clubs are along Promenade des Anglais. Paris: One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The French Alps are quite popular for skiing and snowboarding during the winter months. In Spain the average price is up by 16% - from 106 to 123 a night. $77, Paris: 3-Course Dinner Cruise on the Seine River:
France has a lively atmosphere around its Christmas markets. $34, Seville: Paella Cooking Experience on a Rooftop Terrace:
Paris: The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad students. Perfume and porcelain are both popular things to buy in the area. Most small towns are connected to the larger cities by rail, and the larger cities are connected with high-speed rail, too. Whether you're on the beach or hanging out at a rooftop bar, Marseille is a magical place. From hiking through the beautiful landscapes to horseback riding to rafting and kayaking, there's something for everyone here. Especially Lyon which has several marionette puppet museums, a cinema museum, and the large Musee de Confluences which focuses on humanity. There are train networks with high speed trains that connect most major cities. The tourist infrastructure here is extensive, and anyone can travel comfortably here no matter their budget or price range. $10, Paris: Montparnasse Smartphone Audio-Guided Tour:
Beyond the paella, there are a number of other amazing traditional dishes. Food cheaper in France than Spain? It's easy to find budget accommodation in most cities and towns, although the overall in this Western European country tend to be high. From the fine dining restaurants of Paris and Lyon to the farm-fresh cafes in the small towns, to the abundance of wine in Burgundy or Bordeaux, we promise that you won't go hungry. When you rent in Spain, the price of the actual car can look cheaper because other parts of the cost of renting are not always included in that basic price. The best season to come and party is during the summer months, but you'll still find plenty to do throughout the year. Both Spain and France offer an similar amount of mountain activities for visitors. Generally, no matter where you visit in this country, you can find some great trails. However, each country has its advantages. Marseille: It's famous for its bouillabaisse, which is a hearty seafood soup that was once affordable but is now quite pricey. Jump to Should you visit Spain or France? In Madrid, don't miss Gran Via, Calle Preciados, Calle de Fuencarral, or the historic El Rastro flea market where you can find plenty of hidden gems. Marbella: This area attracts vacationers from around Europe and the shopping is some of the best in Europe. Almeria: Outside of town you'll find kilometers of stunning coastline and beaches. There are all inclusive resorts as well as family-friendly and romantic options to choose from. $5.67, Barcelona: Estrella Damm Brewery Guided Tour with Tasting:
You can see barracuda, octopus, moray, a variety of large fish species, and more. It's hard to find a country with more cultural and historical destinations. Fideu is similar to paella but made with noodles instead of rice. The Mediterranean coast has multiple beach resort towns such as those in Valencia or around Malaga and Marbella. Plenty of activities for families and kids can be found in almost every corner of the country. Popular beaches include Bogatell Beach, Barceloneta Beach, and Nova Icria. Additionally, other cities such as Toledo, the towns in Catalonia, Granada, and Seville attract many visitors. Also known as the Way of St. James, this historic 500 mile-long pilgrimage route stretches across the entire width of Spain and also has numerous secondary paths. Colmar is another town hosting five different markets which all blend together into one large festive atmosphere.