A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Biarritz vs. Como for Food, Couples, Nightlife, and Beaches

Should you visit Biarritz or Como?

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

Should I visit Biarritz or Como? 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.

Como

Como is a trendy, fun, and vibrant lake area. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Biarritz and Como: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Biarritz or Como?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Como. Although Biarritz and Como are both popular with visitors, Como has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Como is more popular for its food, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Biarritz is known for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, and small town charm. Como is more touristy than Biarritz and is known for its long-running history as a resort retreat for upscale travelers. It is also home to the lakeside setting. Biarritz is popular for its surfing culture, long beaches, and seaside atmosphere.

How is Biarritz different from Como?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Como 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 Como?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Biarritz and Como.

While most people don't head to Biarritz specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. 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.

Como offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people visit for the lakeside setting, but there's history throughout, with notable buildings including the Duomo, Museo Civico, and Basilica di Sant'Abbondio.

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

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

For foodies, Como is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The area has its own style of Italian food. Polenta is one of the most popular dishes and it's usually served with meat, fish, or cheese. You can also enjoy several different types of fish such as misultitt (dried fish), salmon trout, pike, bleak, lavarello, and perch.

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 Como Better for Nightlife?

Biarritz is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Como is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Biarritz has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Como has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It is more known for its glamour and sophistication than its raging party scene. There are fine dining restaurants where you can sip wine and enjoy the view. There are also theaters and jazz clubs that offer a relaxing vibe and a nice night out.

Is Biarritz or Como Better for Resorts?

Biarritz is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Como is not a resort destination.

Biarritz is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. You'll find a mix of holiday cottages, vacation rentals, and beachfront hotels. There are also hostels around town for those on a budget.

Como is not a resort destination.

Is Biarritz or Como Better for Beaches?

Biarritz is an excellent place to visit for the beach. Also, Como is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Biarritz. 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Como. You'll find lakeside beaches where you can relax, sunbath, or swim. Many are affiliated with clubs and the atmosphere is often trendy and upscale. Don't expect a secluded and natural setting, but there are often nice restaurants nearby.

Is Biarritz or Como Better for Hiking?

Como is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Biarritz is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Como. There's a wide variety of hiking trails in the area that take you through the mountains or along the water's edge. One of the most popular trails is the Greenway del Lago di Como.

Biarritz is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Biarritz or Como?

Como is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Biarritz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Como draws large crowds to its stores. The shopping is comparable to major cities, with everything from high end boutiques to outlets and local markets. There are clothing shops, jewelry stores, and places to pick up local souvenirs. Shopping is a favorite activity for many visitors to Lake Como.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Is Biarritz or Como Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Biarritz or Como.

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.

Como is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. It has parks and gardens to explore, as well as Vezio Castle and many nice walking trails. A highlight for many kids is a visit to Lake Como Adventure Park.

Is Biarritz or Como Better for Couples?

Como is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Biarritz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Como makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Its beautiful walks, charming towns, and surrounding natural setting make this a great honeymoon and couple's getaway destination. Dine on Italian cuisine as you sip wine and look out on the pristine waters of Lake Como.

Couples visit Biarritz frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Is Biarritz or Como Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Biarritz and Como are both very good destinations for backpackers.

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

Como is a very popular seaside town for backpackers and budget travelers. It's a popular destination with all types of travelers, so you'll find a decent selection of hostels to choose from, and a number of other backpackers around to hang out with.

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

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

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 Como, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses, ferries, and a funicular that travel to different towns around the lake.

Is Biarritz or Como a more walkable city?

Biarritz and Como are very good when it comes to walkability.

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

Como is a very walkable destination. The entire area is very walkable and you'll enjoy many great views during your stroll.

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

Should I spend more time in Como or Biarritz?

How long in Biarritz or Como?

It's fun to spend time in either Biarritz or Como. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Biarritz due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Biarritz, and 2-4 days is enough time in Como.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Como 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 Como.

One day in Biarritz or Como?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Biarritz. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

The beautiful lake area of Como offers nightlife and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Biarritz or Como?

Biarritz is a fun place to experience. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

Five days in Biarritz or Como?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the cultural destination of Biarritz. This seaside town offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Como 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 Como?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the cultural seaside town of Biarritz. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Como is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This lake area 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Rome, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Rome.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Biarritz and Como, we can see that Como 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 Como would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Como 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 Como Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Biarritz or Como?

Como has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Biarritz. When comparing the sizes of Biarritz and Como, 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 Como?

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 Como in the Summer?

Both Como and Biarritz are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Biarritz for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Como in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Biarritz is cooler than Como. Typically, the summer temperatures in Biarritz in July average around 20°C (68°F), and Como averages at about 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Como. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Biarritz. Biarritz usually receives less sunshine than Como during summer. Biarritz gets 209 hours of sunny skies, while Como receives 250 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Biarritz usually receives more rain than Como. Biarritz gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Como receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Biarritz or Como in the Autumn?

Both Como and Biarritz during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Biarritz in the autumn for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere. Also, most visitors come to Como for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Biarritz is generally around the same temperature as Como. Daily temperatures in Biarritz average around 16°C (60°F), and Como fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Biarritz often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Como. Biarritz gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Como receives 152 hours of full sun.

Como 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 Como. Biarritz gets 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Como receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Biarritz or Como in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Biarritz and Como. Most visitors come to Biarritz for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Como because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Como can be very cold. Biarritz is much warmer than Como in the winter. The daily temperature in Biarritz averages around 8°C (47°F) in January, and Como fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Biarritz usually receives less sunshine than Como during winter. Biarritz gets 85 hours of sunny skies, while Como receives 119 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 Como. Biarritz gets 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain, while Como receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Biarritz or Como in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Biarritz as well as Como. The spring months attract visitors to Biarritz because of the beaches and the small town charm. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Como this time of year.

In the spring, Biarritz is around the same temperature as Como. Typically, the spring temperatures in Biarritz in April average around 12°C (54°F), and Como averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Biarritz often gets less sunshine than Como. Biarritz gets 141 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Como receives 176 hours of full sun.

Biarritz receives a lot of rain in the spring. Biarritz usually gets more rain in April than Como. Biarritz gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Como receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Como and Biarritz