A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lisse vs. Arles for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Lisse or Arles?

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

Should I visit Lisse or Arles? 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.

Lisse

Lisse is a stunning, colorful, and picturesque town. The famous beauty of Lisse is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Lisse travel costs.

Arles

Arles is a quaint, historic, and charming town. The beauty of Arles is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Arles travel costs.

Lisse and Arles: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisse or Arles?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lisse. Although Lisse and Arles are both popular with visitors, Lisse has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Lisse is more popular for its impressive beauty, while Arles is known for its museums and attractions, food, and historical sights. Lisse is more touristy than Arles and is popular for its stunning flowers and iconic tulip fields. It is also home to the Keukenhof Gardens. Arles is popular for its Roman history and its influence over Vincent van Gogh.

How is Lisse different from Arles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Arles and Lisse. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lisse or Arles?

Arles is a world-class destination for its historical sights. Also, Lisse is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Arles are world-renowned. It's a small town but it's filled with Roman ruins and remarkable landmarks. Popular sights include L'Amphithéâtre Romain, Les Alyscamps, Cloître Saint-Trophime, and Théâtre Antique.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Lisse. There are a handful of museums in the area, like the Museum de Zwarte Tulp (Museum of the Black Tulip), which showcases the history and art of the Dutch flower-growing industry, including exhibits on tulips, bulbs, and floral culture. And, of course, there's the Keukenhof Gardens, which is the main draw to the area during the spring season and one of the most popular attractions in the Netherlands.

Is the Food Better in Lisse or Arles? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Arles is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Lisse is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Arles has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The cuisine is heavily influenced by the region's local agriculture. Popular dishes include agriade (beef stew), tellines soup, and fougasse (a local bread).

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Lisse area. The town has a variety of food options, from traditional Dutch snacks to international cuisine. Local cafes and restaurants often serve classic Dutch dishes, such as poffertjes (mini pancakes) and bitterballen (fried meatballs), perfect for a quick bite or a relaxed meal. In Keukenhof Gardens you'll find food stalls, trucks, and a cafe, but they can get crowded during peak times.

Is Lisse or Arles Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is good in both Lisse and Arles.

If you're looking for night time activities Lisse has a few options to choose from. Most people don't think about nightlife when they visit town but there's a surprising number of thinks to do like cozy bars and charming cafes. Visitors can enjoy live music, great drinks, and a friendly atmosphere, especially in the town's central areas.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Arles. There are countless bars and pubs where you can enjoy a cold drink and a relaxing night out.

Is Lisse or Arles Better for its Old Town?

Arles is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Lisse does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Arles is revered around the world. The large old town is filled with Roman ruins and historic sights. There are narrow streets and many interesting places to explore.

Lisse does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisse or Arles?

If you're looking to go shopping, Lisse and Arles both offer plenty of good spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Lisse. The town offers a range of shopping opportunities, especially in its charming town center. You’ll find boutique stores, gift shops, and specialty shops selling local products, such as Dutch cheeses, flowers, and souvenirs.

Many visitors go to Arles to go shopping. There are many boutiques that are filled with local art, crafts, and merchandise.

Is Lisse or Arles More Beautiful?

Lisse is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Lisse is one of the main draws. Most visitors come for the Keukenhof Gardens, which are a breathtaking spectacle, renowned for their vibrant and meticulously arranged displays of millions of tulips and other flowers. The gardens are designed with picturesque pathways, tranquil ponds, and themed flower beds, making it feel like a living painting in every corner.

Arles is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This small city is famous for inspiring works by Vincent Van Gogh.

Is Lisse or Arles Better for Families?

Lisse is very good for its family-friendly activities. However, Arles is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Lisse. The Keukenhof Gardens has a few things to keep the kids entertained, like a play area and boat rides. Some kids will also enjoy seeing the millions of colorful tulips and other flowers. For a more interactive experience, families can head to the Flowerstrip, where children can explore local farms and see how flowers are grown. Also near town is Lisse is the Duinrell theme park, which has thrilling rides and a water park that’s perfect for a family day out.

For families, Arles is not always the best place to visit. Filled with Roman ruins and beautiful art, this is a great town, but can make for a long day for younger kids.

Is Lisse or Arles Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Lisse and Arles make for a great place to visit.

Lisse is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Couples will enjoy this area, especially during the spring when the Keukenhof Gardens come alive with vibrant tulip fields and flower displays. There are also boat rides through the nearby canals, surrounded by beautiful countryside. A visit to the nearby Keukenhof Castle provides a charming atmosphere, with its elegant gardens and tea room. perfect for relaxing together. Couples can also explore the local flower fields by bike.

Arles is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy history, roman ruins, and beautiful art will appreciate a weekend getaway to this town.

Is Lisse or Arles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisse is very good for backpackers. However, Arles is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Lisse is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The entrance fee to Keukenhof Gardens can be a bit pricey, but there are plenty of free or low-cost activities to enjoy nearby, like cycling through the beautiful tulip fields or exploring the nearby countryside. Budget accommodations, such as hostels or guesthouses, can be found in Lisse or in nearby towns like Leiden, offering affordable options for travelers.

Arles is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels and apartments in the area.

Is Lisse or Arles Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lisse and Arles both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Lisse offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses that travel from Schiphol Airport and elsewhere in the country to Keukenhof Gardens. It's best to book your tickets in advance.

Arles has a few public transit options. There are shuttle buses that run between the city center and the train station, which is less than a kilometer out of town.

Is Lisse or Arles a more walkable city?

Arles is great for its high level of walkability. Also, Lisse is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its ease of walking around.

Arles is a very walkable town. It's a historic walled city that is very walkable.

Lisse is a somewhat walkable town. Many visitors bike through the tulip fields outside of the Keukenhof Gardens. You could walk, but you'll cover more ground with a bicycle.

For even more information, also check out Is Lisse Worth Visiting? and Is Arles Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Arles or Lisse?

How long in Lisse or Arles?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Lisse or Arles to fill your time. In our opinion, Arles has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Arles than Lisse. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

One day in Lisse or Arles?

In Lisse, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this colorful destination offers. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Arles, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this compact destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the museums. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Lisse or Arles?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lisse. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Arles. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Lisse or Arles?

Lisse is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Lisse. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Arles is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Arles. Lots of people come for the museums. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Lisse or Arles?

You'll find food and shopping around the colorful destination of Lisse. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find food and shopping around the historic destination of Arles. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Netherlands, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Netherlands, The Best Contiki Tours to France, and The Best G Adventures Tours to France.

When comparing the travel costs between Lisse and Arles, we can see that Arles 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 Lisse Expensive? and Is Arles Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Lisse or Arles?

Arles has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Lisse. When comparing the sizes of Lisse and Arles, 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 Lisse or Arles?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Lisse or Arles in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Lisse as well as Arles. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lisse this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Arles for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Lisse is cooler than Arles. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lisse in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Arles averages at about 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Arles. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lisse this time of the year. In the summer, Lisse often gets less sunshine than Arles. Lisse gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arles receives 354 hours of full sun.

Lisse usually gets more rain in July than Arles. Lisse gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Arles receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisse or Arles in the Autumn?

Both Arles and Lisse are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Lisse for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Arles in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Lisse is generally much colder than Arles. Daily temperatures in Lisse average around 11°C (51°F), and Arles fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Lisse usually receives less sunshine than Arles during autumn. Lisse gets 99 hours of sunny skies, while Arles receives 178 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Arles. In October, Lisse usually receives less rain than Arles. Lisse gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Arles receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lisse or Arles in the Winter?

Both Arles and Lisse during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Lisse in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Arles for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Lisse can get quite cold in the winter. Lisse is much colder than Arles in the winter. The daily temperature in Lisse averages around 2°C (36°F) in January, and Arles fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

In the winter, Lisse often gets less sunshine than Arles. Lisse gets 46 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arles receives 146 hours of full sun.

Lisse usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Arles. Lisse gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Arles receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisse or Arles in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisse and Arles. Most visitors come to Lisse for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Arles because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Lisse is much colder than Arles. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lisse in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Arles averages at about 13°C (56°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Arles this time of the year. Lisse usually receives less sunshine than Arles during spring. Lisse gets 166 hours of sunny skies, while Arles receives 218 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lisse usually receives less rain than Arles. Lisse gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Arles receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Arles and Lisse