A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Messina vs. Toulon for Nightlife, Families, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Messina or Toulon?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Messina and Toulon can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Messina

Messina is a historic, bustling, and local port city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Messina travel costs.

Toulon

Toulon is a real world, industrial, and authentic port city. Toulon is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches. See Toulon travel costs.

Messina and Toulon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Messina or Toulon?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Messina. Although Messina and Toulon are both popular with visitors, Messina has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Messina is more popular for its nightlife and big city activities, while Toulon is known for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Messina is more touristy than Toulon and is known for being the entry and departure point to Sicily for those traveling by ferry. It is also home to Piazza del Duomo. Toulon is popular for its old town, its coastal setting, and its popularity with local vacationers.

How is Messina different from Toulon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Messina or Toulon?

Both Messina and Toulon have good landmarks and museums for visitors.

Messina is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a number of historic sights around town including the Cathedral and the Piazza del Duomo, the Bell Tower and Astronomical Clock, Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani, and the Regional Museum. There are also many ornate fountains around town.

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 Messina or Toulon? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at good restaurants in both Messina and Toulon.

Messina offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The city's cuisine is a mix of the cultures that have influenced Sicily over the centuries. The city has a longstanding fishing industry and one of the most popular dishes are swordfish rolls. Also try the pidone (similar to calzones with different fillings), and the focaccia (a local bread).

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 Messina or Toulon Better for Nightlife?

Messina 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.

Messina offers plenty to do in the evening. The nightlife scene is mostly centered around the old town and you'll find a mix of locals and tourists hanging out in pubs and bars. During the summer months there are often free outdoor concerts to enjoy.

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 Messina or Toulon Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Toulon is a port city with a few options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Messina is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Toulon has a few snorkeling spots. 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.

Messina is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Messina or Toulon Better for Beaches?

Toulon is a port city with good options for its beaches. However, Messina is not particularly known for the beach.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Toulon. 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.

You can check out the beach in Messina. There are pebbly beaches in the area that are becoming more popular with tourists.

Is Messina or Toulon Better for its Old Town?

Toulon is a port city with a few options for its historic old town. However, Messina does not have a historic old town.

Toulon is a good place to visit the old town. The old town has plazas, terraced cafes, and plenty of outdoor shopping opportunities that visitors can enjoy.

Messina does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Messina or Toulon?

Toulon is well known for shopping. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular 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 Messina. The best shopping is around Piazza Cairoli with the main shopping streets being Viale Europa and Viale San Martino. There are many small boutiques that have cheaper prices than some of the more upscale Sicilian towns.

Is Messina or Toulon More Beautiful?

Toulon is a port city with good options for its scenery and beauty. However, Messina is not a destination known for its beauty.

Toulon is a gorgeous place to visit. Located on the French Riviera, you won't be disappointed by the beauty. Despite being less touristy than many nearby towns, there is still plenty to see and do.

Messina is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Messina or Toulon Better for Families?

Messina is a well-known 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.

Messina is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are a number outdoor activities that kids will enjoy including Parco Avventura Dei Peloritani, which has ropes and obstacle courses. There's also the Karting Center, which is fun for the whole family, or a small aquarium in town. If you're looking for an excursion outside of town, head to Cascata Cataolo waterfall, which is very kid-friendly.

Toulon is a family-friendly port 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 Messina or Toulon Better for Couples?

Both Messina and Toulon are good destinations for a couple's getaway.

Messina is a nice destination for couples. Most visitors see the city as an arrival or departure point for Sicily, but those couples who linger will appreciate a number of historical sights and a nice atmosphere.

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 Messina or Toulon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Messina and Toulon are good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Messina is a good port city to visit for backpackers. If you're traveling by train or ferry, you'll likely arrive or depart from this city. There are a number of hostels and cheap guesthouses around town that offer affordable accommodation.

Plenty of backpackers 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 Messina or Toulon Better for Students?

Messina is very good for students. However, Toulon is not popular with students.

Messina is a good port city to visit for students. There are a few study abroad opportunities that bring international students to town. The city also have good transportation connections and a friendly atmosphere that is welcoming to students.

Toulon is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Messina and Toulon.

You'll find some public transit in Messina, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. If your legs are tired then there's an efficient bus system that you can use.

While Toulon offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses as well as petits trains (little tourist trains) that you can take around town.

Is Messina or Toulon a more walkable city?

Messina and Toulon both are superb when exploring on foot.

Messina is very walkable. Most of the city's attractions can be reached on foot and the port is a ten to fifteen minute walk from Piazza del Duomo.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Messina Worth Visiting? and Is Toulon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Toulon or Messina?

How long in Messina or Toulon?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Messina or Toulon to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Messina than Toulon because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Messina, and 1-2 days is enough time in Toulon.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Toulon than Messina 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 Toulon.

One day in Messina or Toulon?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Messina. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

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

A weekend in Messina or Toulon?

Messina is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Toulon, 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 Toulon has to offer.

Five days in Messina or Toulon?

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

Toulon 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.

A week in Messina or Toulon?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the local destination of Messina. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

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

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, The Best Luxury Tours to France, and The Best Budget Tours to France.

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

Which is Bigger, Messina or Toulon?

Toulon has a larger population, and is about 19% larger than the population of Messina. When comparing the sizes of Messina 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 Messina 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 Messina or Toulon in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Messina and Toulon. Many visitors come to Messina in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Toulon for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Messina is a little warmer than Toulon in the summer. The daily temperature in Messina averages around 27°C (80°F) in July, and Toulon fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Toulon this time of the year. In Messina, it's very sunny this time of the year. Messina usually receives less sunshine than Toulon during summer. Messina gets 332 hours of sunny skies, while Toulon receives 366 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Messina usually receives more rain than Toulon. Messina gets 19 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Messina or Toulon in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Messina as well as Toulon. Most visitors come to Messina for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Toulon because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Messina is a little warmer than Toulon. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Messina in October average around 21°C (69°F), and Toulon averages at about 16°C (61°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Toulon. In the autumn, Messina often gets less sunshine than Toulon. Messina gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulon receives 205 hours of full sun.

Messina receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Messina usually gets more rain in October than Toulon. Messina gets 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Messina or Toulon in the Winter?

Both Toulon and Messina are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Messina because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Toulon this time of year.

In January, Messina is generally much warmer than Toulon. Daily temperatures in Messina average around 13°C (55°F), and Toulon fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Messina usually receives less sunshine than Toulon during winter. Messina gets 115 hours of sunny skies, while Toulon receives 150 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Messina. In January, Messina usually receives more rain than Toulon. Messina gets 113 mm (4.5 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Messina or Toulon in the Spring?

Both Toulon and Messina during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Messina this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Toulon for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Messina is a little warmer than Toulon in the spring. The daily temperature in Messina averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Toulon fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In Toulon, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Messina. In the spring, Messina often gets less sunshine than Toulon. Messina gets 207 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Toulon receives 245 hours of full sun.

Messina usually gets more rain in April than Toulon. Messina gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Toulon receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Toulon and Messina