A Travel Price Comparison for France Biarritz vs. Avignon for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Biarritz or Avignon?

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

Should I visit Biarritz or Avignon? 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.

Biarritz

Biarritz is a quirky, dynamic, and cultural seaside town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and shopping.

Avignon

Avignon is a charming, scenic, and picturesque town. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and food.

Biarritz and Avignon: Pros and Cons

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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Biarritz or Avignon?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Avignon. Although Biarritz and Avignon are both popular with visitors, Avignon has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Avignon is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and small town charm, while Biarritz is known for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, and shopping. Biarritz is popular for its surfing culture, long beaches, and seaside atmosphere. Avignon is popular for its architectural beauty and historical importance. It is also home to Palais des Papes.

How is Biarritz different from Avignon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Biarritz
Avignon

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

The museums and tourist attractions in Avignon are world-renowned. The town is filled with historical landmarks such as Palais des Papes, Pont Saint Bénézet, Musée du Petit Palais, and Basilique Métropolitaine Notre-Dame des Doms.

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 Biarritz or Avignon? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Biarritz
Avignon

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

For foodies, Avignon is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. For such a small town you'll find many great eateries where you can sample French cuisine. You'll find bakeries, patisseries, restaurants, chocolatiers, and cafes to try. Cooking classes are also a popular activity in town.

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 Biarritz or Avignon Better for Nightlife?

Biarritz
Avignon

Biarritz is a very popular place for its evening party scene. However, Avignon is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Biarritz has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Avignon is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There's a limited nightlife scene but the bars you'll find are usually centered around Place de lHorloge, Place du Palais, Rue Carnot, and Place des Corps-Saints.

Is Biarritz or Avignon Better for Resorts?

Biarritz
Avignon

Biarritz is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Avignon 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.

Avignon is not a resort destination.


Is Biarritz or Avignon Better for Beaches?

Biarritz
Avignon

Biarritz is a very popular place for the beach. However, Avignon 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.

Avignon is not a beach destination.

Is Biarritz or Avignon Better for its Old Town?

Biarritz
Avignon

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

The old town of Avignon is one of the most recognized in the world. The walled medieval old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it's filled with history.

Biarritz does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Biarritz or Avignon?

Biarritz
Avignon

Biarritz is a very popular place for its shopping areas. Also, Avignon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Avignon is a great destination for shopping. There are several shopping streets in town like Rue de la Republique, Rue Joseph-Vernet, and Rue St Agricol.


Is Biarritz or Avignon Better for Families?

Biarritz
Avignon

Biarritz is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Avignon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Biarritz. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Avignon. Families can enjoy cooking classes, boat tours, and exploring the old town together.

Is Biarritz or Avignon Better for Couples?

Biarritz
Avignon

With fun activities for couples, both Biarritz and Avignon make for a superb place to visit.

Biarritz makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Couples visit Avignon frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Filled with history, couples can enjoy strolling through the old town or dinner on amazing French food.

Is Biarritz or Avignon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Biarritz
Avignon

Biarritz is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Avignon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Biarritz. The town attracts surfers and there are plenty of hostels and other accommodation options for budget travelers or backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Avignon. You'll find a few affordable hotels, but hostels are a little bit more difficult to come by.


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

Biarritz
Avignon

Visitors will find good public transit in both Biarritz and Avignon.

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

You'll find some public transit in Avignon, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are city buses as well as tourist shuttles around town.

Is Biarritz or Avignon a more walkable city?

Biarritz
Avignon

Avignon is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Biarritz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Avignon. There's almost no traffic in the city center so it's easy to explore on foot.

Biarritz is a very walkable destination. 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 Biarritz Worth Visiting? and Is Avignon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Avignon or Biarritz?

How long in Biarritz or Avignon?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Biarritz or Avignon to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Biarritz than Avignon because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Biarritz, and 1-2 days is enough time in Avignon.

Families should spend more time in Biarritz than Avignon. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Biarritz than Avignon 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 Biarritz or Avignon? Ideal Length of Stay
    Biarritz 3-7 
    Avignon 1-2

One day in Biarritz or Avignon?

In Biarritz, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This seaside town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Avignon is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Biarritz or Avignon?

In Biarritz, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Avignon is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town 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 Avignon, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Biarritz or Avignon?

Biarritz is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Biarritz has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Avignon 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.

A week in Biarritz or Avignon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Biarritz. In Biarritz, you'll find shopping and nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Avignon 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 town offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to France, The Best Contiki Tours to France, The Best G Adventures Tours to France, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Paris.


Which place is cheaper, Avignon or Biarritz?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Biarritz is €131, while the average daily cost in Avignon is €700. 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 Biarritz and Avignon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Biarritz 74
    Avignon 647
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Biarritz 148
    Avignon 1,294
Compare Hotels in Biarritz and Avignon

Looking for a hotel in Biarritz or Avignon? 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 Biarritz


Hotels in Avignon


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: Biarritz Hotel Prices and Avignon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Biarritz 39
    Avignon 21

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Biarritz

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

  • Private transfer from Biarritz BIQ airport to San Sebastian: $209
  • Private Transfer from Biarritz city to San Sebastian Airport: $169
  • Private Transfer from Biarritz city to San Sebastian : $169
  • Private Transfer BIQ Biarritz Airport to Biarritz Downtown: $83
  • Departure Private Transfer Biarritz to Biarritz Airport BIQ by Luxury vehicles: $86
  • Chauffeured Transfer between Biarritz Airport, Train Station and City Center: $72
  • Biarritz : Private transfer to/from airport & train Station: $71
  • Arrival Private Transfer BIQ Airport to Biarritz by Luxury Vehicle: $86

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Avignon

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

  • Transfer Vaison la Romaine and surroundings to Avignon: $166
  • Transfer Avignon to Vaison la Romaine and surroundings: $166
  • Private transfer Marseille - Avignon: $434
  • Private Departure Transfer from Avignon to Marseille Airport MRS: $118
  • Marseille Provence Airport (MRS) to Avignon - Round-Trip Transfer: $236
  • Departure Private Transfer Avignon City to Avignon Airport AVN by Luxury Van: $133
  • Departure Private Transfer Avignon City to Avignon Airport AVN by Luxury Minibus: $247
  • Departure Private Transfer Avignon City to Avignon Airport AVN by Business Car: $92
  • Arrival Private Transfer Avignon Airport AVN to Avignon City by Luxury Minibus: $247
  • Arrival Private Transfer Avignon Airport AVN to Avignon City by Business Car: $92
  • Arrival Priate Transfer Avignon Airport AVN to Avignon City by Luxury Van: $133

Is it cheaper to fly into Biarritz or Avignon?

Prices for flights to both Avignon and Biarritz 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
    Biarritz 34
    Avignon 33

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: $77
  • Bayonne Food Tour: Journey Through Flavors (with food and drinks): $98
  • Traditional Bayonne Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $105
  • Basque Country Food Tour: $242

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Avignon

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

  • Avignon Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience : $105
  • Cooking lessons: $215
  • Cooking Class and Lunch with a Local Chef: $409

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Biarritz 16
    Avignon 15

Tours and Activities in Biarritz

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

  • Basque tour of Biarritz: $50
  • Bayonne Food Gastronomic Tour - Taste 10 Basque specialties: $98
  • Bayonne Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $281
  • Biarritz guided walking & gourmet tour: $75
  • Biarritz, Bayonne, and Basque Country: Private Driving Tour: $972
  • 2-Hour Private Guided Walking Tour: $189
  • City Exploration Game & Tour on your Phone: $6.46
  • Complete Self-guided Audio Tour on your Phone: $8.58
  • E-bike Guided Tour With Sunset local Aperitif Ride: $38
  • E-bike Guided Tour to Small California: $38
  • French Basque Country Coastline tour in a 70'sVW Van: $464
  • French Basque Country Private Day Tour in an 70's VW Combi: $608

Tours and Activities in Avignon

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

  • 3 hours of Tour in the Wines of Châteauneuf-du-Pape: $98
  • A Tour in Provence in a typical French motorized bike : the Solex: $46
  • Aix en Provence and Avignon city of Popes Private Tour: $1,075
  • Arles and Camargue Small-Group Half-Day Tour from Avignon: $99
  • Avignon : Half-Day Walking Tour with Private Guide: $163
  • Avignon Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $280
  • Avignon Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $10
  • Avignon Walking Tour including Pope's Palace: $76
  • All About Avignon Tour: $18
  • Around The Palace Tour: $28
  • City Walking Tour with Popes Palace Entry: $75
  • Emblematic Squares Tour: $238

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Biarritz 8.05
    Avignon 16

Sample the Local Flavors in Avignon

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Avignon:

  • Wine tasting in Sablet: $3.30
  • Provence and Wine Tasting by E-Bike from Saint-Rémy-de-Provence: $66
  • E-bike tour and wine tasting from Vaison la Romaine: $66
  • Half-Day Provence Pont du Gard and Wine Tasting Tour from Avignon: $88
  • From Morning Wine Tour to Châteauneuf du Pape: $92
  • Morning Wine Tour to Chateauneuf du Pape from Avignon: $95
  • From Afternoon Wine Tour Châteauneuf du Pape: $103
  • Afternoon Wine Tour to Chateauneuf du Pape from Avignon: $105
  • Roman heritages and Chateauneuf du Pape Wine Tour from Avignon: $132
  • Full Day Pont du Gard, Orange theatre, Wine tour from Avignon: $133
  • 8 Hours Private Wine Tour in Châteauneuf du Pape: $166
  • Full-Day Wine Tour around Châteauneuf-du-Pape: $174


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

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


Which is Bigger, Biarritz or Avignon?

Avignon has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Biarritz. When comparing the sizes of Biarritz and Avignon, 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 Biarritz or Avignon?

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 Biarritz or Avignon in the Summer?

Both Avignon and Biarritz are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Biarritz for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Avignon because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Biarritz is cooler than Avignon. Typically, the summer temperatures in Biarritz in July average around 20°C (68°F), and Avignon averages at about 24°C (75°F).

It's quite sunny in Avignon. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Biarritz. Biarritz usually receives less sunshine than Avignon during summer. Biarritz gets 209 hours of sunny skies, while Avignon receives 354 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Biarritz usually receives more rain than Avignon. Biarritz gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Avignon receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Biarritz 20°C (68°F) 
    Avignon 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Biarritz or Avignon in the Autumn?

Both Avignon and Biarritz during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Biarritz because of the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Avignon this time of year.

In October, Biarritz is generally around the same temperature as Avignon. Daily temperatures in Biarritz average around 16°C (60°F), and Avignon fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Biarritz often gets less sunshine than Avignon. Biarritz gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Avignon receives 178 hours of full sun.

Avignon gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Biarritz. Biarritz usually gets more rain in October than Avignon. Biarritz gets 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Avignon receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Biarritz 16°C (60°F) 
    Avignon 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Biarritz or Avignon in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Biarritz and Avignon. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Biarritz this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Avignon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Biarritz is a little warmer than Avignon in the winter. The daily temperature in Biarritz averages around 8°C (47°F) in January, and Avignon fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Biarritz usually receives less sunshine than Avignon during winter. Biarritz gets 85 hours of sunny skies, while Avignon receives 146 hours of full sun in the winter.

Biarritz gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Biarritz usually receives more rain than Avignon. Biarritz gets 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain, while Avignon receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Biarritz 8°C (47°F) 
    Avignon 7°C (44°F)

Should I visit Biarritz or Avignon in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Biarritz as well as Avignon. Many travelers come to Biarritz for the beaches and the small town charm. Additionally, many visitors come to Avignon in the spring for the small town charm.

In the spring, Biarritz is around the same temperature as Avignon. Typically, the spring temperatures in Biarritz in April average around 12°C (54°F), and Avignon averages at about 13°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Avignon. In the spring, Biarritz often gets less sunshine than Avignon. Biarritz gets 141 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Avignon receives 218 hours of full sun.

Biarritz receives a lot of rain in the spring. Biarritz usually gets more rain in April than Avignon. Biarritz gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Avignon receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Biarritz 12°C (54°F) 
    Avignon 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Avignon and Biarritz

Biarritz Avignon
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 8°C (47°F) 183 mm (7.2 in) 7°C (44°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 9°C (49°F) 147 mm (5.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 10°C (51°F) 148 mm (5.8 in) 10°C (50°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 12°C (54°F) 163 mm (6.4 in) 13°C (56°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
May 15°C (59°F) 139 mm (5.5 in) 17°C (63°F) 60 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 18°C (64°F) 92 mm (3.6 in) 21°C (69°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Jul 20°C (68°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 24°C (75°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Aug 20°C (68°F) 115 mm (4.5 in) 23°C (74°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 18°C (65°F) 134 mm (5.3 in) 20°C (69°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 16°C (60°F) 155 mm (6.1 in) 16°C (61°F) 130 mm (5.1 in)
Nov 11°C (52°F) 190 mm (7.5 in) 11°C (51°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Dec 9°C (49°F) 184 mm (7.2 in) 7°C (45°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)