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

Should you visit Biarritz or Milan?

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

Should I visit Biarritz or Milan? 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. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Milan

Milan is a trendy, chic, and cultural city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Biarritz and Milan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Biarritz or Milan?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Milan. Although Biarritz and Milan are both popular with visitors, Milan has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Milan is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Biarritz is known for its resorts, beaches, and small town charm. Biarritz is more touristy than Milan and is known for its surfing culture, long beaches, and seaside atmosphere. Milan is popular for its grand squares, dramatic architecture, and its leadership in the fashion world. It is also home to Piazza del Duomo.

How is Biarritz different from Milan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Milan offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The Milan Cathedral is the most famous landmark in the city, but other sights include Castello Sforzesco, Pinacoteca di Brera, and Sant'Ambrogio.

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 Milan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

For foodies, Milan is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The city has a mix of traditional dishes combined with modernized, trendy restaurants. You can try a new dish by a groundbreaking chef, or sample a long running favorite like risotto alla Milanese.

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 Milan Better for Nightlife?

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

Milan is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The city has a huge number of students and young professionals, which make it a fun place with an active nightlife. There are cocktail bars, trendy clubs, and relaxed pubs that you can chose from.

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 Biarritz or Milan Better for Music?

Milan is renowned for its live music scene. However, Biarritz is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Milan. The diversity of music ranges from classical concerts to techno raves. Popular venues include Blue Note Milan, Santeria Social Club, and Spirit de Milan.

Biarritz is not a live music destination.

Is Biarritz or Milan Better for Resorts?

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

In Biarritz, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. You'll find a mix of holiday cottages, vacation rentals, and beachfront hotels. There are also hostels around town for those on a budget.

Milan is not a resort destination.

Is Biarritz or Milan Better for Beaches?

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

The beaches at Biarritz attract visitors from all over. 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.

Milan is not a beach destination.

Is Biarritz or Milan Better for its Old Town?

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

The old town of Milan is one of the most recognized in the world. Known as the Centro Storic, this area is the most popular with tourists. It's where you'll find the most historic buildings and beautiful sights in the city.

Biarritz does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Biarritz or Milan?

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

Known for shopping, Milan draws large crowds to its stores. Famous as the fashion capital of Italy, shopping is the thing to do here. There are many streets that are lined with the biggest designers in fashion. Make sure you check out Via Monte Napoleone, Via Della Spiga, and Corso Buenos Aires.

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 Milan Better for Families?

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

Milan is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a science museum and a children's museum, MuBa, that is great for the kids. There are also a number of parks to explore as well as playgrounds where the kids and get out their energy.

Is Biarritz or Milan Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Biarritz and Milan make for a excellent 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 Milan frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many beautiful buildings, excellent shopping, and romantic restaurants that make for a wonderful couple's getaway.

Is Biarritz or Milan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Biarritz and Milan are both excellent 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.

Milan is a very popular seaside town for backpackers and budget travelers. While not as popular with backpackers as some Italian city's, there are a number of hostels and great activities that are fun for visitors.

Is Biarritz or Milan Better for Students?

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

Many students frequent Milan. It is one of the more popular city's for international students in Italy. It is very livable with a lot of culture and a fun nightlife, so you're sure to have the experience of a lifetime.

Biarritz is not popular with students.

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

Milan is renowned for times when you don't have a car. Also, Biarritz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Milan has a great public transit system. Options include metro, bus, tram, and train 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 Biarritz or Milan a more walkable city?

Milan 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 Milan. In particular, the city center is walkable.

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 Milan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Milan or Biarritz?

How long in Biarritz or Milan?

In either Biarritz or Milan, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Biarritz than Milan because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Biarritz, and 1-5 days is enough time in Milan.

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

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

One day in Biarritz or Milan?

In Biarritz, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this relaxing destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This seaside town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Milan is a big city with plenty to do. 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 Milan?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Biarritz. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

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

Five days in Biarritz or Milan?

Biarritz is a fun place to experience. In Biarritz, many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Milan is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Milan, 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 Milan?

In Biarritz, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this relaxing destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Milan 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to France, The Best Contiki Tours to France, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Biarritz or Milan?

Milan has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Biarritz. When comparing the sizes of Biarritz and Milan, 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 Milan?

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 Milan in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Biarritz and Milan. Many visitors come to Biarritz in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Milan for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Milan this time of the year. In Biarritz, it's very sunny this time of the year. Biarritz usually receives less sunshine than Milan during summer. Biarritz gets 209 hours of sunny skies, while Milan receives 250 hours of full sun in the summer.

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

Should I visit Biarritz or Milan in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Biarritz as well as Milan. Most visitors come to Biarritz for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Milan because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

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

It's quite rainy in Milan. Biarritz receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Biarritz usually gets more rain in October than Milan. Biarritz gets 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Milan receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Biarritz or Milan in the Winter?

Both Milan and Biarritz are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Biarritz because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Milan this time of year.

It's quite cold in Milan in the winter. Biarritz is much warmer than Milan in the winter. The daily temperature in Biarritz averages around 8°C (47°F) in January, and Milan fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Biarritz usually receives less sunshine than Milan during winter. Biarritz gets 85 hours of sunny skies, while Milan receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Biarritz. In January, Biarritz usually receives more rain than Milan. Biarritz gets 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain, while Milan receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Biarritz or Milan in the Spring?

Both Milan and Biarritz during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the small town charm are the main draw to Biarritz this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Milan for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

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

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

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

Typical Weather for Milan and Biarritz