A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Biarritz vs. Positano for Food, Resorts, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Biarritz or Positano?

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

Should I visit Biarritz or Positano? 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.

Positano

Positano is a stunning, luxurious, and charming Mediterranean village. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Biarritz and Positano: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Biarritz or Positano?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Positano. Although Biarritz and Positano are both popular with visitors, Positano has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Positano is more popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Biarritz is known for its museums, nightlife, and beaches. Positano is more touristy than Biarritz and is known for its beautiful cliffside setting, its colorful buildings, and its quintessential Amalfi atmosphere. It is also home to The Church of Santa Maria Assunta. Biarritz is popular for its surfing culture, long beaches, and seaside atmosphere.

How is Biarritz different from Positano?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Biarritz is adequate for its historical sights. However, Positano does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Positano does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

For foodies, Positano is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Seafood is the obvious choice along the Amalfi Coast but Positano is also famous for its salami, chestnuts, cheese, and figs.

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 Positano Better for Nightlife?

Biarritz is great for its evening party scene. However, Positano is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to Biarritz for the nightlife scene. 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.

Most people don't head to Positano specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The town has a relaxing nightlife that is usually centered around the clubs found at nearby resorts.

Is Biarritz or Positano Better for Resorts?

Positano is renowned for its luxury resorts. Also, Biarritz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Positano is a great choice. The town has a number of luxury resorts including Le Sirenuse, Il San Pietro di Positano, and Hotel Le Agavi.

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

Is Biarritz or Positano Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Positano is a decent place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Biarritz is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Positano. There are snorkeling boat trips that you can book to enjoy exploring the undersea world.

Biarritz is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Biarritz or Positano Better for Beaches?

Biarritz is great for the beach. Also, Positano is not as popular, but is still a nice Mediterranean village for its beaches.

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.

Positano is a good option for a beach vacation. Like the rest of the Amalfi Coast, beaches near Positano tend to be pebbly instead of sandy. They can also get a bit crowded during the summer months. Still, the picturesque setting makes these beaches truly amazing. The main beach at the edge of town is Spiaggia Grande, but there are several others nearby as well.

Is Biarritz or Positano Better for its Old Town?

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

The old town of Positano is one of the most recognized in the world. Exploring the old town, soaking up the atmosphere, and simply enjoying the colorful buildings is what a trip to Positano is all about.

Biarritz does not have a historic old town.

Is Biarritz or Positano Better for Hiking?

Positano 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 Positano. The best way to explore the area out of town is on foot. There are a number of foot paths and trails that will take you through the stunning landscapes.

Biarritz is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Biarritz or Positano?

Shoppers can find a variety of superb stores in both Biarritz and Positano.

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 Positano. The main street in town is lined with quaint shops that sell local lemon products, ceramics, clothing, and more.

Is Biarritz or Positano Better for Families?

Biarritz is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Positano is not as popular, but is still a nice Mediterranean village 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.

Positano is a family-friendly place to visit. Fun activities include boat rides, eating gelato, and hanging out at the beach. Some of the best family-friendly beaches are Spiaggia Grande, Fornillo Beach, and Arienzo Beach.

Is Biarritz or Positano Better for Couples?

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

Positano makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It is a picturesque coast town that is both romantic and fun. Wandering through the streets and sampling Italian food make this the perfect honeymoon getaway.

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 Positano Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Biarritz is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Positano is not as popular, but is still a nice Mediterranean village 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 Positano. The town has a handful of great hostels that make the Amalfi Coast accessible to backpackers on a budget.

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

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

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 Positano, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. You can walk everywhere once you arrive, and the SITA bus travels to and from the town.

Is Biarritz or Positano a more walkable city?

Positano 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 Positano. The town is best explored on foot. You can wander the quaint streets or take the foot path to the beach or nearby castles.

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 Positano Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Positano or Biarritz?

How long in Biarritz or Positano?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Biarritz than Positano 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.

One day in Biarritz or Positano?

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.

Positano is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping 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 Positano?

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.

Positano is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this Mediterranean village makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Positano, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Biarritz or Positano?

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.

Positano is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Positano, 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 Positano?

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.

Positano is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Positano has to offer. This Mediterranean village offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to France, The Best Contiki Tours to France, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Italy, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Biarritz or Positano?

Biarritz has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Positano. When comparing the sizes of Biarritz and Positano, 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 Positano?

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 Positano in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Biarritz and Positano. Most visitors come to Biarritz for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Positano because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Biarritz is cooler than Positano. Typically, the summer temperatures in Biarritz in July average around 20°C (68°F), and Positano averages at about 23°C (74°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Positano this time of the year. In Biarritz, it's very sunny this time of the year. Biarritz usually receives less sunshine than Positano during summer. Biarritz gets 209 hours of sunny skies, while Positano receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Biarritz usually receives more rain than Positano. Biarritz gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Positano receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Biarritz or Positano in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Biarritz as well as Positano. The autumn months attract visitors to Biarritz because of the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere. Additionally, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Positano this time of year.

In October, Biarritz is generally around the same temperature as Positano. Daily temperatures in Biarritz average around 16°C (60°F), and Positano fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In the autumn, Biarritz often gets less sunshine than Positano. Biarritz gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Positano receives 189 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Positano. Biarritz receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Biarritz usually gets more rain in October than Positano. Biarritz gets 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Positano receives 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Biarritz or Positano in the Winter?

Both Positano and Biarritz are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Biarritz this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Positano for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Biarritz is around the same temperature as Positano in the winter. The daily temperature in Biarritz averages around 8°C (47°F) in January, and Positano fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Biarritz usually receives less sunshine than Positano during winter. Biarritz gets 85 hours of sunny skies, while Positano receives 115 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Positano. It's quite rainy in Biarritz. In January, Biarritz usually receives more rain than Positano. Biarritz gets 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain, while Positano receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Biarritz or Positano in the Spring?

Both Positano and Biarritz during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Biarritz for the beaches and the small town charm. Also, many visitors come to Positano in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

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

In the spring, Biarritz often gets less sunshine than Positano. Biarritz gets 141 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Positano receives 189 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Biarritz. Biarritz usually gets more rain in April than Positano. Biarritz gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Positano receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Positano and Biarritz