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

Should you visit Biarritz or Florence?

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

Should I visit Biarritz or Florence? 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 cultural, relaxing, and quirky seaside town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Visitors also love the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Florence

Florence is a historical, artistic, and iconic city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Biarritz and Florence: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Biarritz or Florence?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Florence than Biarritz, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Florence is better known for its museums, food, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Biarritz is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, and small town charm. Florence is more touristy than Biarritz and is known for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. Also, Florence is famous for The Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore). Biarritz is well known for its surfing culture, long beaches, and seaside atmosphere.

How is Biarritz different from Florence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

The museums and tourist attractions in Florence are world-renowned. Because of it's important role in the Renaissance, the city has many world-renowned museums that you can visit. Famous sights and landmarks include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Academy Gallery.

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 Florence? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

For foodies, Florence is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Once you've worked up an appetite exploring museums and churches, you'll find many amazing local restaurants around town. Local dishes incorporate a lot of hearty vegetables and meats. Famous dishes include a Florentine steak dish, rabbit, and a bean bed and cabbage soup.

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 Florence Better for Nightlife?

Biarritz is a great seaside town for nightlife and partying. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Biarritz has something for everybody. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Florence. You'll find the most active nightlife in the Santa Croce neighborhood. The area attracts study abroad students as well as tourists who party late into the night.

Is Biarritz or Florence Better for Resorts?

Biarritz is a great seaside town for its luxury resorts. However, Florence 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.

Florence is not a resort destination.

Is Biarritz or Florence Better for Beaches?

Biarritz is a great seaside town for the beache. However, Florence is not a beach destination.

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.

Florence is not a beach destination.

Is Biarritz or Florence Better for its Old Town?

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

The old town of Florence is one of the most recognized in the world. The historic center of the city is where you'll find many of the most beautiful buildings, art works, and quaint streets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it was at the heart of the Renaissance period.

Biarritz does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Biarritz or Florence?

Shoppers can find a variety of very good stores in both Biarritz and Florence.

Biarritz is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Florence. There are many shops in the tourist heart of the city. Most are geared specifically to tourists so you may have to search to find a more authentic shopping experience. Famous items available in the city include gold jewelry, ceramics, leather, and perfume.

Is Biarritz or Florence Better for Families?

Biarritz is a great seaside town for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Florence is a family-friendly place to visit. Most famous for its art and history, the city also has a number of activities that kids will enjoy. There's a carousel and a park that are perfect to let the little ones run around. There are a few kid-friendly museums, as well as a historic city center that will mesmerize the old and young alike.

Is Biarritz or Florence Better for Couples?

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

Florence makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Art and history lovers will enjoy a visit to this truly beautiful city. Couples who enjoy museums, historic buildings, and world-renowned art, will find plenty to do in this city.

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 Florence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Florence 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, Florence is extremely popular for backpackers. The city is part of a popular route through Italy, and you'll find many backpackers and students in town. There are also many hostels, so you should have no trouble meeting other young travelers.

Biarritz is a very popular seaside town 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 Biarritz or Florence Better for Students?

Florence is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Biarritz is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Florence. Many students visit this city as part of a short term study abroad program, or for the entire length of their studies. The city is beautiful, and whether your focus is art, history, or culture, this city will not disappoint.

Biarritz is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Biarritz and Florence.

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 Florence, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a comprehensive bus system.

Is Biarritz or Florence a more walkable city?

Florence 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 Florence. Most people explore the city 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 Florence Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Florence or Biarritz?

How long in Biarritz or Florence?

Both Biarritz and Florence have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Florence has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Florence than Biarritz. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Biarritz, and 2-7 days is enough time in Florence.

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

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

One day in Biarritz or Florence?

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.

The beautiful city of Florence 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.

A weekend in Biarritz or Florence?

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.

Florence 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 Florence, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Biarritz or Florence?

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.

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

A week in Biarritz or Florence?

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.

Florence 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 Florence has to offer. This city 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 Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Biarritz or Florence?

Florence has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Biarritz. When comparing the sizes of Biarritz and Florence, 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 Florence?

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 Florence in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Biarritz and Florence. Many travelers come to Biarritz for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Florence in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Biarritz is cooler than Florence in the summer. The daily temperature in Biarritz averages around 20°C (68°F) in July, and Florence fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Florence this time of the year. In Biarritz, it's very sunny this time of the year. Biarritz usually receives less sunshine than Florence during summer. Biarritz gets 209 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

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

Should I visit Biarritz or Florence in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Biarritz as well as Florence. Many visitors come to Biarritz in the autumn for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere. Also, most visitors come to Florence for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Biarritz is around the same temperature as Florence. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Biarritz in October average around 16°C (60°F), and Florence averages at about 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Biarritz often gets less sunshine than Florence. Biarritz gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 177 hours of full sun.

Biarritz receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Biarritz usually gets more rain in October than Florence. Biarritz gets 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Florence receives 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Biarritz or Florence in the Winter?

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

In January, Biarritz is generally a little warmer than Florence. Daily temperatures in Biarritz average around 8°C (47°F), and Florence fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

Biarritz usually receives less sunshine than Florence during winter. Biarritz gets 85 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Biarritz. In January, Biarritz usually receives more rain than Florence. Biarritz gets 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain, while Florence receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Biarritz or Florence in the Spring?

Both Florence and Biarritz during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Biarritz because of the beaches and the small town charm. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Florence this time of year.

Biarritz is cooler than Florence in the spring. The daily temperature in Biarritz averages around 12°C (54°F) in April, and Florence fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

In the spring, Biarritz often gets less sunshine than Florence. Biarritz gets 141 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 192 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Biarritz. Biarritz usually gets more rain in April than Florence. Biarritz gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Florence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Florence and Biarritz