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

Should you visit Lisse or Auxerre?

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

Should I visit Lisse or Auxerre? 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. Many visitors also come to Lisse because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Lisse travel costs.

Auxerre

Auxerre is a under-rated, undiscovered, and authentic town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Visitors also love the food and museums. See Auxerre travel costs.

Lisse and Auxerre: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Keukenhof Gardens
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Lisse or Auxerre?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lisse. Although Lisse and Auxerre are both popular with visitors, Lisse has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Lisse is more popular for its nightlife, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Auxerre is known for its small town charm. Lisse is more touristy than Auxerre and is known for its stunning flowers and iconic tulip fields. It is also home to the Keukenhof Gardens. Auxerre is popular for its food, wine, and art history.

How is Lisse different from Auxerre?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lisse
Auxerre

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Lisse and Auxerre.

Lisse offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Auxerre. Although the town is often overlooked by tourists, there are many nice cathedrals and churches around town.


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

Lisse
Auxerre

Foodies will find both Lisse and Auxerre both to be good destinations.

Lisse has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Auxerre area. The town is a the heart of the wine industry, so you'll find many great restaurants where you can enjoy local food and wine.

Is Lisse or Auxerre Better for Nightlife?

Lisse
Auxerre

Lisse is very good for its evening party scene. However, Auxerre is not a good destination for nightlife.

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.

Most people don't head to Auxerre specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It has a quiet nightlife with some nice bars and pubs.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisse or Auxerre?

Lisse
Auxerre

Lisse is very good for its shopping areas. However, Auxerre is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Lisse has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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.

Auxerre is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Lisse or Auxerre More Beautiful?

Lisse
Auxerre

Lisse is an amazing town to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Auxerre is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Lisse because of it's amazing beauty. 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.

Auxerre is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Lisse or Auxerre Better for Families?

Lisse
Auxerre

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Lisse or Auxerre.

Lisse offers lots of family activities. 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.

Auxerre is a family-friendly place to visit. There's the Zoo de La Fleche and the Aquarium de Touraine. You can also wander through Musee de l'Avallon or des Plantes.

Is Lisse or Auxerre Better for Couples?

Lisse
Auxerre

Lisse is great for couples. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for romance.

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.

Auxerre is a nice destination for couples. There are many great eateries as well nice architecture and, of course, excellent wine.


Is Lisse or Auxerre Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisse
Auxerre

Lisse is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Auxerre is not a good destination for backpackers.

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.

Auxerre is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a popular stop off on the backpacker circuit, but you will find some affordable accommodation options.

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

Lisse
Auxerre

Lisse and Auxerre 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.

Auxerre has a few public transit options. There are buses around town.

Is Lisse or Auxerre a more walkable city?

Lisse
Auxerre

Lisse and Auxerre are good when it comes to walkability.

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

Auxerre is a somewhat walkable town. The center is walkable but it is a bit more difficult to navigate than some nearby towns.


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

Should I spend more time in Auxerre or Lisse?

How long in Lisse or Auxerre?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lisse than Auxerre 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 Lisse.


  • How many days in Lisse or Auxerre? Ideal Length of Stay
    Lisse 1-2 
    Auxerre 1-2

One day in Lisse or Auxerre?

In Lisse, you'll find nightlife and food. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Auxerre, many people enjoy the food and museums that this under-rated 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.

A weekend in Lisse or Auxerre?

In Lisse, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lisse has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Auxerre. 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.

Five days in Lisse or Auxerre?

Lisse is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

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


A week in Lisse or Auxerre?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lisse. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Lisse. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find museums and food around the undiscovered destination of Auxerre. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, and The Best 2-Week Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Auxerre or Lisse?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Lisse is €179, while the average daily cost in Auxerre is €138. 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 Lisse and Auxerre in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lisse 79
    Auxerre 51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lisse 158
    Auxerre 102
Compare Hotels in Lisse and Auxerre

Looking for a hotel in Lisse or Auxerre? 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 Lisse


Hotels in Auxerre


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: Auxerre Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lisse 23
    Auxerre 46

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lisse

Also for Lisse, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • From Rotterdam: One-Way Private Transfer to/from Keukenhof: $341
  • From The Hague: One-Way Private Transfer to/from Keukenhof: $294
  • Private Transfer from Haarlem to cruise port in Amsterdam: $84

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Auxerre

Also for Auxerre, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private transfer CDG Airport from or to Paris: $71

Is it cheaper to fly into Lisse or Auxerre?

Prices for flights to both Auxerre and Lisse 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
    Lisse 81
    Auxerre 59

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Lisse

For Lisse, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Haarlem's Food-steps: A self-guided Food Tour: $43
  • Guided Food Tour Haarlem (min. 2 persons) - Many local tastings : $106

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lisse 30
    Auxerre 18

Tours and Activities in Lisse

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Lisse.

  • 2 Hours Walking Tour Throughout History & Highlights of Haarlem: $29
  • 2-Hour Private History and Highlights of Haarlem Walking Tour: $239
  • 90 minutes Self-Guided Walking tour with puzzles in Haarlem: $23
  • Amsterdam: Private Tour to Keukenhof & Free Tulip Experience: $370
  • BBQ on Board Haarlem Cruise: $77
  • Corrie Ten Boom and WW2 Experience: $39
  • Cultural and Historical Audio guided walking tour Tour of Haarlem: $16
  • Discover Haarlem with a self-guided Outside Escape city game tour: $30
  • Escape Experience Haarlem The Escape of Kenau: $33
  • Food Bike Tour Haarlem Area: $101
  • From Flower Bike Tour Around Keukenhof Small Group: $116
  • From Keukenhof Flower Fields Bike Tour: $58

Tours and Activities in Auxerre

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Auxerre.

  • Paris Picnic experience in front of the Eiffel Tower: $239
  • Touristic highlights of Auxerre a Private half day tour (4 Hours) with a local: $123
  • e-Mehari Tour and tasting Chablis Clotilde Davenne: $101

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Lisse 23
    Auxerre 6.14


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lisse and Auxerre, we can see that Lisse is more expensive. And not only is Auxerre much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Auxerre would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Auxerre 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 Lisse would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Lisse than you might in Auxerre.

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


Which is Bigger, Lisse or Auxerre?

Auxerre has a larger population, and is about 88% larger than the population of Lisse. When comparing the sizes of Lisse and Auxerre, 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 Auxerre?

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 Lisse or Auxerre in the Summer?

Both Auxerre and Lisse are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lisse this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Auxerre for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Lisse is cooler than Auxerre. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lisse in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Auxerre averages at about 19°C (66°F).

It's quite sunny in Auxerre. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisse. Lisse usually receives less sunshine than Auxerre during summer. Lisse gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Auxerre receives 255 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lisse usually receives more rain than Auxerre. Lisse gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Auxerre receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Lisse 17°C (62°F) 
    Auxerre 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Lisse or Auxerre in the Autumn?

Both Auxerre and Lisse during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Lisse for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Auxerre in the autumn for the small town atmosphere.

In October, Lisse is generally cooler than Auxerre. Daily temperatures in Lisse average around 11°C (51°F), and Auxerre fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Lisse often gets less sunshine than Auxerre. Lisse gets 99 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Auxerre receives 126 hours of full sun.

Lisse usually gets more rain in October than Auxerre. Lisse gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Auxerre receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Lisse 11°C (51°F) 
    Auxerre 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Lisse or Auxerre in the Winter?

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

Auxerre can be very cold during winter. Lisse can get quite cold in the winter. Lisse is cooler than Auxerre in the winter. The daily temperature in Lisse averages around 2°C (36°F) in January, and Auxerre fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Lisse usually receives less sunshine than Auxerre during winter. Lisse gets 46 hours of sunny skies, while Auxerre receives 53 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Lisse usually receives more rain than Auxerre. Lisse gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Auxerre receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Lisse 2°C (36°F) 
    Auxerre 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Lisse or Auxerre in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Lisse as well as Auxerre. Most visitors come to Lisse for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Auxerre because of the small town charm.

In the spring, Lisse is cooler than Auxerre. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lisse in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Auxerre averages at about 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Lisse often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Auxerre. Lisse gets 166 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Auxerre receives 167 hours of full sun.

Lisse usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Auxerre. Lisse gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Auxerre receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Lisse 8°C (46°F) 
    Auxerre 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Auxerre and Lisse

Lisse Auxerre
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 3°C (37°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (41°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 7°C (45°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in) 10°C (50°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 15°C (59°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 18°C (64°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in) 19°C (66°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Oct 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 13°C (55°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 7°C (45°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Dec 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 5°C (41°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)


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