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

Should you visit Athens or Biarritz?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Athens and Biarritz. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Athens

Athens is a ancient, vibrant, and energetic city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Biarritz

Biarritz is a cultural, relaxing, and quirky seaside town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Athens and Biarritz: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Athens or Biarritz?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Athens. Although Athens and Biarritz are both popular with visitors, Athens has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Athens is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Biarritz is known for its resorts, beaches, shopping, and small town charm. Athens is popular for its ancient temples and landmarks as well as its influence as the birthplace of democracy. It is also home to The Acropolis. Biarritz is popular for its surfing culture, long beaches, and seaside atmosphere.

The Acropolis

How is Athens different from Biarritz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Athens is renowned for its museums and history. However, Biarritz is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Athens are world-renowned. As a historical capital of the world, this city has countless museums and archeological sites including the famous Acropolis, the National Archaeology Museum, and the Ancient Agora.

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 Athens or Biarritz? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Athens is renowned for its restaurants. Also, Biarritz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Athens is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.

Dining out in Biarritz is an experience not to be missed. 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).

Is Athens or Biarritz Better for Nightlife?

Athens is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Biarritz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Athens is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. There are all-night dance clubs as well as local bars and chill live music venues.

The people in Biarritz know how to have a good time. 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.

Is Athens or Biarritz Better for Resorts?

Biarritz is great for its luxury resorts. However, Athens is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Biarritz to choose from. You'll find a mix of holiday cottages, vacation rentals, and beachfront hotels. There are also hostels around town for those on a budget.

Athens is not a resort destination.

Is Athens or Biarritz Better for Beaches?

Biarritz is great for the beach. However, Athens is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Biarritz for it's beautiful beaches. 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.

Athens is not a beach destination.

Is Athens or Biarritz Better for its Old Town?

Athens is renowned for its old town. However, Biarritz does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Athens is one of the most recognized in the world. The city's "historic triangle" is between Syntagma, Omonia, and Monastiraki Squares. This area is also at the political and financial heart of the city.

Biarritz does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Athens or Biarritz?

Biarritz is great for its shopping areas. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Biarritz. 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.

Athens is a great destination for shopping. Most neighborhoods have a shopping street but head to Ermou Street for some of the city's best shopping.

Is Athens or Biarritz Better for Families?

Both Athens and Biarritz are superb family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Athens. With its rich history, beautiful outdoor activities, and kid-friendly food, Athens is a fun place to explore with the whole family.

Biarritz is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 Athens or Biarritz Better for Couples?

Biarritz is great for couples. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Biarritz is a great seaside town if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Athens is a nice destination for couples. The city is historical, fascinating, and romantic, making it a beautiful place to explore as a couple.

Is Athens or Biarritz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Athens is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Biarritz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Athens is extremely popular for backpackers. The city has long been established as a backpackers destination with budget friendly food and plenty of hostels around town.

Biarritz is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The town attracts surfers and there are plenty of hostels and other accommodation options for budget travelers or backpackers.

Is Athens or Biarritz Better for Students?

Athens is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Biarritz is not popular with students.

Athens is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. International students will appreciate the rich history, archaeological ruins, and unique opportunities that are available here.

Biarritz is not popular with students.

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

Athens is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Biarritz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Public transit in Athens can get you to some places easily. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines.

You'll find some public transit in Biarritz, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are regional bus lines to nearby towns operated by Chronoplus and PESA.

Is Athens or Biarritz a more walkable city?

Athens and Biarritz are superb when it comes to walkability.

Athens is a very walkable destination. You'll find the city's most walkable area's in the historical heart, where there are many pedestrian only streets and shopping areas.

Biarritz is very walkable. 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 Athens Worth Visiting? and Is Biarritz Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Biarritz or Athens?

How long in Athens or Biarritz?

Both Athens and Biarritz have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Athens has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Athens than Biarritz. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in Biarritz than Athens. 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 Athens than Biarritz 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 Athens.

One day in Athens or Biarritz?

Athens is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Biarritz. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Athens or Biarritz?

Athens is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Biarritz is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Athens or Biarritz?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Biarritz. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Athens or Biarritz?

Athens is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Athens has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the relaxing destination of Biarritz. This seaside town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Greece, The Best Tours for Seniors to France, and The Best Contiki Tours to France.

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

Which is Bigger, Athens or Biarritz?

Athens has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Biarritz. When comparing the sizes of Athens 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 Athens or Biarritz?

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 Athens or Biarritz in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Athens and Biarritz. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Athens this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Biarritz for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Athens is generally a little warmer than Biarritz. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 27°C (81°F), and Biarritz fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Biarritz this time of the year. In Athens, it's very sunny this time of the year. Athens usually receives more sunshine than Biarritz during summer. Athens gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Biarritz receives 209 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Athens usually receives less rain than Biarritz. Athens gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Athens or Biarritz in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Athens as well as Biarritz. Many travelers come to Athens for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Biarritz in the autumn for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

Athens is a little warmer than Biarritz in the autumn. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Biarritz fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Athens this time of the year. In the autumn, Athens often gets more sunshine than Biarritz. Athens gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Biarritz receives 144 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Biarritz. Athens usually gets less rain in October than Biarritz. Athens gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Athens or Biarritz in the Winter?

Both Biarritz and Athens are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Athens in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Biarritz for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Athens is a little warmer than Biarritz. Typically, the winter temperatures in Athens in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Biarritz averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Athens usually receives more sunshine than Biarritz during winter. Athens gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Biarritz receives 85 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Biarritz. In January, Athens usually receives less rain than Biarritz. Athens gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Athens or Biarritz in the Spring?

Both Biarritz and Athens during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Athens for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Biarritz because of the beaches and the small town charm.

In April, Athens is generally a little warmer than Biarritz. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 16°C (60°F), and Biarritz fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

It's quite sunny in Athens. In the spring, Athens often gets more sunshine than Biarritz. Athens gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Biarritz receives 141 hours of full sun.

Biarritz gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Athens usually gets less rain in April than Biarritz. Athens gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Biarritz and Athens