A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Aberdeen vs. Biarritz for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Aberdeen or Biarritz?

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

Should I visit Aberdeen or Biarritz? 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.

Aberdeen

Aberdeen is a cultural, architectural, and authentic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Biarritz

Biarritz is a relaxing, quirky, and dynamic seaside town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Aberdeen and Biarritz: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Aberdeen or Biarritz?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Aberdeen. Although Aberdeen and Biarritz are popular destinations, Aberdeen has more sights and attractions for tourists. Aberdeen is very popular for its museums, historical sights, and big city activities, while Biarritz attracts visitors for its food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, shopping, and small town charm. Biarritz is more touristy than Aberdeen and is popular for its surfing culture, long beaches, and seaside atmosphere. Aberdeen is famous for its longstanding maritime history and its many cultural sights and activities. It is also well known for St Machar's Cathedral Aberdeen.

How is Aberdeen different from Biarritz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Aberdeen or Biarritz?

Aberdeen
Biarritz

Aberdeen is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Biarritz is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

Aberdeen offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city's long running history means that there are plenty of sights and museums worth exploring. Highlights include St. Machar's Cathedral, the University and King's College of Aberdeen, Brig o'Balgownie, and the Tolbooth Museum.

Biarritz offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people pass their time relaxing on the beach or taking a walk, but you can also visit the Biarritz Aquarium or the Biarritz Lighthouse.


Is the Food Better in Aberdeen or Biarritz? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Aberdeen
Biarritz

Biarritz is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Biarritz makes for a great culinary experience. The food is a delicious mix of French, Spanish, and Basque flavors. Seafood is an obvious influence, but you'll also find meat and bread in many dishes. Local specialties include the oysters, pintxos (a snack of bread topped with ham, cheese, or vegetables), and marmitako (tuna stew).

Aberdeen has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Everything from brunch bistros to fine dining are available in this city. You can enjoy local specialties or international options at any of the unique restaurants around town.

Is Aberdeen or Biarritz Better for Nightlife?

Aberdeen
Biarritz

Biarritz is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Biarritz offers plenty to do in the evening. The city center has the most bars and clubs if you're looking for a party. Head to Port Vieux or Les Halles for some of the city's best nightlife. For a more relaxed night out, there are night markets as well as beach front terraces and rooftops where you can sip wine in a mellow atmosphere.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Aberdeen. The nightlife scene is diverse with whisky dens, local pubs, and even trendy nightclubs to choose from.

Is Aberdeen or Biarritz Better for Resorts?

Aberdeen
Biarritz

Biarritz is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Aberdeen is not a resort destination.

Biarritz is known as a popular and fun resort destination. You'll find a mix of holiday cottages, vacation rentals, and beachfront hotels. There are also hostels around town for those on a budget.

Aberdeen is not a resort destination.


Is Aberdeen or Biarritz Better for Beaches?

Aberdeen
Biarritz

Biarritz is a well-known place for its beaches. However, Aberdeen is not a beach destination.

Biarritz is considered a top beach destination. There are plenty of sandy beaches near the town that offer great surfing. For calmer water you can head to some of the smaller bays. Some of the most popular beaches in the area include Le Grande Plage, Plage du Miramar, and Plage Port Vieux.

Aberdeen is not a beach destination.

Is Aberdeen or Biarritz Better for its Old Town?

Aberdeen
Biarritz

Aberdeen is an excellent place to visit for its old town. However, Biarritz does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Aberdeen. This city's old town is a hidden gem in Scotland. The cobblestone streets and long history make for a fascinating place to explore.

Biarritz does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Aberdeen or Biarritz?

Aberdeen
Biarritz

Biarritz is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Biarritz is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The town has many market halls, boutiques, and department stores. Head to Avenue de Verdun for some quirky local stores or Place Georges Clemenceau for more high end shopping.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Aberdeen. A mix of modern shopping centers, antique vendors, and local boutiques make for an interesting shopping scene. For some of the city's best shopping head to Union Square Shopping Centre, the Trinity Centre, or Bon Accord Aberdeen.


Is Aberdeen or Biarritz Better for Families?

Aberdeen
Biarritz

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Aberdeen or Biarritz.

Aberdeen is a very family-friendly place to visit. Explore the city's history or wander through one of the many museums. Some of the best museums for kids include the Aberdeen Maritime Museum, Little Treasures Toy Museum, the Aberdeen Science Center, and the Gordon Highlanders Museum. Adrenaline seekers will enjoy rock climbing and ropes courses at Transition Extreme or ziplining at Go Ape Crathes Castle. Also nearby is horseback riding and Codona’s Amusement Park.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Biarritz is very family-friendly. The sandy beaches are great for surfing, but you'll also find some calm water where kids can play. There are plenty of surf schools in the area that will help kids learn if they're just beginning to surf. Kids who love the ocean will find tons of entertainment in this seaside town.

Is Aberdeen or Biarritz Better for Couples?

Aberdeen
Biarritz

Biarritz is a well-known place for romance. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Biarritz is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many coastal walks, sandy beaches, and surfing opportunities that couples can enjoy. Combine that with great French cuisine and a lively atmosphere, and you won't find a better couples getaway.

Aberdeen makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many of the standard activities for couples such as interesting restaurants, theaters, and fun concerts.

Is Aberdeen or Biarritz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Aberdeen
Biarritz

Biarritz is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Aberdeen is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Biarritz. The town attracts surfers and there are plenty of hostels and other accommodation options for budget travelers or backpackers.

Aberdeen is not a backpacker-friendly destination.


Is Aberdeen or Biarritz Better for Students?

Aberdeen
Biarritz

Aberdeen is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Biarritz is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Aberdeen. The city is a nice affordable option for students who want to study at the University of Aberdeen.

Biarritz is not popular with students.

Is Aberdeen or Biarritz Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Aberdeen
Biarritz

Both Aberdeen and Biarritz offer nice public transit options.

Aberdeen has a few public transit options. There are public buses through town and it's possible to pick up a Grasshopper ticket that lets you ride on most of the bus companies.

Biarritz has some public transit options. There are regional bus lines to nearby towns operated by Chronoplus and PESA.

Is Aberdeen or Biarritz a more walkable city?

Aberdeen
Biarritz

Aberdeen and Biarritz both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Aberdeen is very walkable. It's easy to walk to most of the city's attractions.

Biarritz is a very walkable city. The city center is very walkable and you can reach many of the beaches on foot as well.


For even more information, also check out Is Aberdeen Worth Visiting? and Is Biarritz Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Biarritz or Aberdeen?

How long in Aberdeen or Biarritz?

Both Aberdeen and Biarritz have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Biarritz than in Aberdeen. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Aberdeen, and 3-7 days is enough time in Biarritz.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Biarritz than Aberdeen 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 Biarritz.


  • How many days in Aberdeen or Biarritz? Ideal Length of Stay
    Aberdeen 2-3 
    Biarritz 3-7

One day in Aberdeen or Biarritz?

The city of Aberdeen offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

The seaside town of Biarritz offers nightlife and food. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Aberdeen or Biarritz?

Aberdeen is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Aberdeen, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Biarritz is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Aberdeen or Biarritz?

Aberdeen is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Biarritz is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Biarritz, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A week in Aberdeen or Biarritz?

Aberdeen is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Biarritz is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Biarritz has to offer. This seaside town offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best Tours for Seniors to France, and The Best Contiki Tours to France.


Which place is cheaper, Biarritz or Aberdeen?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Aberdeen is £121, while the average daily cost in Biarritz is £112. 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 Aberdeen and Biarritz in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Aberdeen £65
    Biarritz £63
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Aberdeen £130
    Biarritz £126
Compare Hotels in Aberdeen and Biarritz

Looking for a hotel in Aberdeen or Biarritz? 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 Aberdeen


Hotels in Biarritz


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: Aberdeen Hotel Prices and Biarritz Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Aberdeen £34
    Biarritz £33

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Aberdeen

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Aberdeen:

  • Private Aberdeen Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $49
  • Private Aberdeen Arrival Transfer - Airport to Hotel / Accommodation: $49
  • Aberdeen Dyce Airport(ABZ) to Balmedie - Arrival Private Transfer: $44
  • Aberdeen Dyce Airport (ABZ): Private Transfer to Aberdeen: $181
  • Aberdeen Dyce Airport (ABZ) to Aberdeen - Arrival Private Transfer: $57
  • Aberdeen City to Aberdeen Dyce Airport (ABZ) - Departure Private Transfer: $57
  • Aberdeen Airport to Aberdeen - Round-Trip Private Transfer : $131

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Biarritz

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

  • Biarritz : Private transfer to/from airport & train Station: $70
  • Chauffeured Transfer between Biarritz Airport, Train Station and City Center: $71
  • Arrival Private Transfer BIQ Airport to Biarritz by Luxury Vehicle: $85
  • Private Transfer from Biarritz city to San Sebastian : $167
  • Private Transfer from Biarritz city to San Sebastian Airport: $167
  • Private transfer from Biarritz BIQ airport to San Sebastian: $229
  • San Sebastian: Optimized transfer to Biarritz & surroundings: $262
  • Biarritz : Optimized transfer to/from Bordeaux: $749

Is it cheaper to fly into Aberdeen or Biarritz?

Prices for flights to both Biarritz and Aberdeen 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
    Aberdeen £35
    Biarritz £29

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Biarritz

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

  • Biarritz Food Tour Gastronomique- Taste 10 Basque specialties: $76
  • Bayonne Food Tour: Journey Through Flavors (with food and drinks): $97
  • Traditional Bayonne Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $104
  • Basque Country Food Tour: $240

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Aberdeen £19
    Biarritz £14

Tours and Activities in Aberdeen

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Aberdeen are as follows:

  • 3 hour Gin School Experience in Aberdeen: $153
  • 500 Years of Crime and Punishment: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Aberdeen City Centre Walking Tour (2pm): $18
  • Aberdeen Historical & Turbulent Times Walking Tour: $76
  • Aberdeen Historical Walking Tour: $60
  • Aberdeen Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $19
  • Aberdeen's Ancient Heritage and Folklore Tour: $87
  • Aberdeen's Union Street: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.34
  • Daily City Centre Walking Tour (2pm): $17
  • Dark history Self-Guided Smartphone Walking Tour: $6.99
  • Private Street Art Guided Walking Tour: $144
  • Union Street App-Based Self-Guided Audio Tour: $4.99

Tours and Activities in Biarritz

For Biarritz, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Pierre IBAIALDE: Guided Tour Ham Workshop, tasting: $5.46
  • City Exploration Game & Tour on your Phone: $6.36
  • Complete Self-guided Audio Tour on your Phone: $8.45
  • Walking tours of Biarritz: $22
  • E-bike Guided Tour With Sunset local Aperitif Ride: $32
  • E-bike Guided Tour to Small California: $37
  • Basque tour of Biarritz: $49
  • Unusual Guided Tour in a Segway in Biarritz: $59
  • Biarritz guided walking & gourmet tour: $74
  • Bayonne Food Gastronomic Tour - Taste 10 Basque specialties: $97
  • Guided Tapas Tour Hondarribia from Hendaye with Food and Drinks: $108
  • Private E-bike Guided Tour: $155

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Aberdeen £3.57
    Biarritz £6.89

Sample the Local Flavors in Aberdeen

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Aberdeen:

  • Gin Distillery Discovery Tour with Welcome Drink: $34
  • Aberdeen’s Distillery Discovery Tour: $34
  • City of Aberdeen Distillery: Gin School Experience: $150
  • Aberdeen&Shire Castle & Distillery Private Group 1 Day Tour: $401


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


Which is Bigger, Aberdeen or Biarritz?

Aberdeen has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Biarritz. When comparing the sizes of Aberdeen and Biarritz, 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 Aberdeen or Biarritz?

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 Aberdeen or Biarritz in the Summer?

Both Biarritz and Aberdeen during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Aberdeen because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Biarritz this time of year.

In the summer, Aberdeen is cooler than Biarritz. Typically, the summer temperatures in Aberdeen in July average around 14°C (58°F), and Biarritz averages at about 20°C (68°F).

In Biarritz, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Aberdeen often gets less sunshine than Biarritz. Aberdeen gets 157 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Biarritz receives 209 hours of full sun.

Aberdeen usually gets less rain in July than Biarritz. Aberdeen gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Aberdeen 14°C (58°F) 
    Biarritz 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Aberdeen or Biarritz in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Aberdeen and Biarritz. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Aberdeen this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Biarritz for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

In October, Aberdeen is generally much colder than Biarritz. Daily temperatures in Aberdeen average around 9°C (49°F), and Biarritz fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

Aberdeen usually receives less sunshine than Biarritz during autumn. Aberdeen gets 93 hours of sunny skies, while Biarritz receives 144 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Biarritz receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Aberdeen usually receives less rain than Biarritz. Aberdeen gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Aberdeen 9°C (49°F) 
    Biarritz 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Aberdeen or Biarritz in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Aberdeen as well as Biarritz. Many travelers come to Aberdeen for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Biarritz in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Aberdeen. Aberdeen is much colder than Biarritz in the winter. The daily temperature in Aberdeen averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Biarritz fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Aberdeen often gets less sunshine than Biarritz. Aberdeen gets 52 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Biarritz receives 85 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Biarritz. Aberdeen usually gets less rain in January than Biarritz. Aberdeen gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Aberdeen 3°C (38°F) 
    Biarritz 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Aberdeen or Biarritz in the Spring?

Both Biarritz and Aberdeen are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Aberdeen in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Biarritz for the beaches and the small town charm during these months.

In the spring, Aberdeen is much colder than Biarritz. Typically, the spring temperatures in Aberdeen in April average around 7°C (44°F), and Biarritz averages at about 12°C (54°F).

Aberdeen usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Biarritz during spring. Aberdeen gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Biarritz receives 141 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Biarritz. In April, Aberdeen usually receives less rain than Biarritz. Aberdeen gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Aberdeen 7°C (44°F) 
    Biarritz 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for Biarritz and Aberdeen

Aberdeen Biarritz
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 8°C (47°F) 183 mm (7.2 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 51 mm (2 in) 9°C (49°F) 147 mm (5.8 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 10°C (51°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Apr 7°C (44°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 12°C (54°F) 163 mm (6.4 in)
May 9°C (49°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 15°C (59°F) 139 mm (5.5 in)
Jun 13°C (55°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 18°C (64°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Jul 14°C (58°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 20°C (68°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Aug 14°C (57°F) 75 mm (3 in) 20°C (68°F) 115 mm (4.5 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 18°C (65°F) 134 mm (5.3 in)
Oct 9°C (49°F) 77 mm (3 in) 16°C (60°F) 155 mm (6.1 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 75 mm (3 in) 11°C (52°F) 190 mm (7.5 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 9°C (49°F) 184 mm (7.2 in)


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