Which place is cheaper, Milan or Paris?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.
Should I visit Paris or Milan? 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.
Paris is a iconic, bustling, and energetic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Many visitors also come to Paris because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music. See Paris travel costs.
Milan is a cultural, trendy, and chic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Many visitors also come to Milan because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Milan travel costs.
You'll generally find more things to do in Paris than Milan. Paris is bigger than Milan, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Paris is better known for its museums and attractions and theatre productions, while Milan is more popular for its historical sights. Paris is more touristy than Milan and is known for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. Also, Paris is famous for The Eiffel Tower. Milan is well known for its grand squares, dramatic architecture, and its leadership in the fashion world.
The Eiffel Tower
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Milan and Paris. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
Paris is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. Also, Milan is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.
With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Paris has many famous sights for visitors. One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.
Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Milan. The Milan Cathedral is the most famous landmark in the city, but other sights include Castello Sforzesco, Pinacoteca di Brera, and Sant'Ambrogio.
Paris is an amazing city to visit for its shows and theatre. However, Milan is not a theatre destination.
Visitors will find world class theater shows, plays, and musicals in Paris that are not to be missed. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.
Milan is not a theatre destination.
Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Paris and Milan.
For foodies, Paris is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.
Milan has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city has a mix of traditional dishes combined with modernized, trendy restaurants. You can try a new dish by a groundbreaking chef, or sample a long running favorite like risotto alla Milanese.
The vibe at night is terrific in both Paris and Milan.
Paris is a must-see party destination. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.
Milan is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The city has a huge number of students and young professionals, which make it a fun place with an active nightlife. There are cocktail bars, trendy clubs, and relaxed pubs that you can chose from.
Paris and Milan are both destinations where visitors can find terrific live music.
Paris is known as a music capital around the world. Some of the most famous music venues include Le Pop In, La Mécanique Ondulatoire, and Les Disquaires. You'll also find many small bars where you can enjoy live music in a quaint setting.
Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Milan The diversity of music ranges from classical concerts to techno raves. Popular venues include Blue Note Milan, Santeria Social Club, and Spirit de Milan.
Milan is terrific for its historic old town. However, Paris does not have a historic old town.
Milan has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. Known as the Centro Storic, this area is the most popular with tourists. It's where you'll find the most historic buildings and beautiful sights in the city.
Paris does not have a historic old town.
If you're looking to go shopping, Paris and Milan both offer plenty of terrific spots.
People travel from around the world to go shopping in Paris. Some of the best areas for shopping are Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards, the Marais, and Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Elysées. The city is iconic for its fashion scene and world class shopping venues.
The abundance of shops in Milan make it a world-class shopping destination. Famous as the fashion capital of Italy, shopping is the thing to do here. There are many streets that are lined with the biggest designers in fashion. Make sure you check out Via Monte Napoleone, Via Della Spiga, and Corso Buenos Aires.
Paris is an amazing city to visit for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Milan does not offer Christmas activities.
With so many activities, Paris is a top place to visit during Christmas. The city of lights really proves itself around the holiday season. In addition to checking out the Christmas lights, it's fun to go window shopping or check out one of the city's Christmas markets.
Milan does not offer Christmas activities.
Paris and Milan both are comparable with their terrific scenery and beauty.
Many visitors also come to Paris because of it's amazing beauty. It is famous for it's beautiful buildings, grand avenues, and impressive gardens. Many consider it among the most romantic and beautiful cities in the world.
You'll find world class beauty in Milan as well. There is stunning architecture and beautiful neighborhoods that you can explore.
Paris is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Milan is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.
Paris is an extremely popular city to visit for families. Check out Jardin du Luxembourg, or one of the city's many playgrounds. Also grab a treat at one of the city's many patisseries. And of course, there's Disneyland Paris.
Milan is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a science museum and a children's museum, MuBa, that is great for the kids. There are also a number of parks to explore as well as playgrounds where the kids and get out their energy.
Paris is an amazing city to visit for couples. Also, Milan is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.
Paris is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway.
Milan is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many beautiful buildings, excellent shopping, and romantic restaurants that make for a wonderful couple's getaway.
Paris is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Milan is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.
A large number of backpackers visit Paris, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. 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.
Backpackers come from all over to visit Milan. While not as popular with backpackers as some Italian city's, there are a number of hostels and great activities that are fun for visitors.
For students, both Paris and Milan are terrific places to visit.
Many students frequent Paris. The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad students.
Students come from all over the world to visit Milan. It is one of the more popular city's for international students in Italy. It is very livable with a lot of culture and a fun nightlife, so you're sure to have the experience of a lifetime.
Paris and Milan both offer terrific public transit to get you around.
The thorough and effecient public transit system of Paris can take you anywhere. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use to get around.
Milan has a great public transit system. Options include metro, bus, tram, and train lines.
Milan is terrific for its walkability. Also, Paris is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.
Milan is a very easy city to get around on foot. In particular, the city center is walkable.
Paris is a very walkable city. Some streets can feel a bit overwhelming, but there are many parts of the city that are easily explored on foot.
For even more information, also check out Is Paris Worth Visiting? and Is Milan Worth Visiting?.
In either Paris or Milan, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Paris than Milan because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Paris, and 1-5 days is enough time in Milan.
Families should spend more time in Paris than Milan. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Paris, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.
Couples should spend more time in Paris than Milan. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Paris that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.
Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Paris than Milan 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 Paris.
Each neighborhood in Paris has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.
In Milan, many people enjoy the live music and food that this chic big city offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Paris. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Milan. 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.
Paris is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Paris has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.
Milan is a fun place to experience. In Milan, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this big city destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.
Each neighborhood in Paris has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.
You'll find museums and nightlife around the trendy big city of Milan. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Historical Tours in France, The Best 10-Day Tours in France, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy.
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 Paris is €263, while the average daily cost in Milan is €195. 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 Paris and Milan in more detail.
Looking for a hotel in Paris or Milan? 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.
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.
Some typical examples of transportation costs in Paris are as follows:
Also for Paris, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Milan:
Also for Milan, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
Prices for flights to both Milan and Paris 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.
Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Paris:
For Paris, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Milan:
For Milan, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
For Paris, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Paris.
For Milan, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Milan.
Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Paris are as follows:
Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Paris:
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Milan:
Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Milan:
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Paris and Milan, we can see that Paris is more expensive. And not only is Milan much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Milan would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Milan 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 Paris would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Paris than you might in Milan.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Paris Expensive? and Is Milan Expensive?.
Paris has a larger population, and is about 64% larger than the population of Milan. When comparing the sizes of Paris and Milan, 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.
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.
Both Milan and Paris are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Paris in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Milan for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.
In July, Paris is generally cooler than Milan. Daily temperatures in Paris average around 20°C (68°F), and Milan fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).
It's quite sunny in Milan. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Paris. Paris usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Milan during summer. Paris gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Milan receives 250 hours of full sun in the summer.
In July, Paris usually receives around the same amount of rain as Milan. Paris gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Milan receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.
Both Milan and Paris during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Paris for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Milan because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.
Paris is cooler than Milan in the autumn. The daily temperature in Paris averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Milan fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).
In the autumn, Paris often gets less sunshine than Milan. Paris gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Milan receives 152 hours of full sun.
Milan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Paris usually gets less rain in October than Milan. Paris gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Milan receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.
The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Paris and Milan. The winter months attract visitors to Paris because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Milan this time of year.
It's quite cold in Milan in the winter. The weather in Paris can be very cold. In the winter, Paris is around the same temperature as Milan. Typically, the winter temperatures in Paris in January average around 5°C (40°F), and Milan averages at about 5°C (41°F).
Paris usually receives less sunshine than Milan during winter. Paris gets 62 hours of sunny skies, while Milan receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.
In January, Paris usually receives less rain than Milan. Paris gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Milan receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.
The spring brings many poeple to Paris as well as Milan. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Paris this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Milan for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.
In April, Paris is generally cooler than Milan. Daily temperatures in Paris average around 11°C (52°F), and Milan fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).
In the spring, Paris often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Milan. Paris gets 172 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Milan receives 176 hours of full sun.
Paris usually gets less rain in April than Milan. Paris gets 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Milan receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.
Paris | Milan | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
Jan | 5°C (40°F) | 55 mm (2.2 in) | 5°C (41°F) | 68 mm (2.7 in) |
Feb | 6°C (42°F) | 45 mm (1.8 in) | 6°C (44°F) | 60 mm (2.3 in) |
Mar | 8°C (47°F) | 52 mm (2.1 in) | 10°C (49°F) | 85 mm (3.4 in) |
Apr | 11°C (52°F) | 50 mm (1.9 in) | 13°C (55°F) | 76 mm (3 in) |
May | 15°C (59°F) | 62 mm (2.4 in) | 17°C (62°F) | 102 mm (4 in) |
Jun | 18°C (64°F) | 53 mm (2.1 in) | 20°C (69°F) | 78 mm (3.1 in) |
Jul | 20°C (68°F) | 58 mm (2.3 in) | 23°C (73°F) | 60 mm (2.4 in) |
Aug | 20°C (67°F) | 46 mm (1.8 in) | 22°C (72°F) | 94 mm (3.7 in) |
Sep | 17°C (63°F) | 53 mm (2.1 in) | 19°C (67°F) | 74 mm (2.9 in) |
Oct | 13°C (56°F) | 55 mm (2.2 in) | 15°C (58°F) | 103 mm (4 in) |
Nov | 8°C (47°F) | 57 mm (2.2 in) | 9°C (49°F) | 102 mm (4 in) |
Dec | 5°C (42°F) | 55 mm (2.2 in) | 6°C (42°F) | 60 mm (2.4 in) |