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

Should you visit Biarritz or Rome?

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

Should I visit Biarritz or Rome? 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 dynamic, cultural, and relaxing seaside town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. Other popular activities here include beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Rome

Rome is a bustling, fun-filled, and popular 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 Rome: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Biarritz or Rome?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Rome. Although Biarritz and Rome are both popular with visitors, Rome has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Rome is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Biarritz is known for its resorts, beaches, and small town charm. Rome is more touristy than Biarritz and is popular for its iconic archaeological sites such as the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, as well as its gelato, Italian cuisine, and strong religious roots. It is also home to The Colosseum. Biarritz is popular for its surfing culture, long beaches, and seaside atmosphere.

The Colosseum

How is Biarritz different from Rome?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

The museums and tourist attractions in Rome are world-renowned. The historical sights around the city are among the most impressive in the world. Almost anywhere you look you'll find a notable landmark but some of the most famous include the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, the Vatican, and the Roman Forum.

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 Rome? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

For foodies, Rome is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Homemade pasta, fresh sauces, and fine wine all make the food scene among the best. Also make sure you try the gelato.

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 Rome Better for Nightlife?

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

Rome is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. You'll find a huge concentration of bars and clubs in the Testaccio area. There are late night clubs with salsa dancing, merengue, and live DJ's spinning every type of music.

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 Rome Better for Music?

Rome 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 Rome. Popular music venues include Live Alcazar, Atlantico Live, and Beba do Samba.

Biarritz is not a live music destination.

Is Biarritz or Rome Better for Resorts?

Biarritz is a great destination for its resorts. However, Rome 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.

Rome is not a resort destination.

Is Biarritz or Rome Better for Beaches?

Biarritz is a great destination for the beach. However, Rome 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.

Rome is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Biarritz or Rome?

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

Known for shopping, Rome draws large crowds to its stores. For the biggest brand names, head to Via del Corso, which is near the Spanish Steps. Popular items to buy include Italian ceramics, shoes, leather goods, and jewelry.

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 Rome Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Biarritz or Rome.

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.

Rome is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. What kid wouldn't be thrilled to be surrounded by pizza and spaghetti restaurants? In addition to kid-friendly food options, there are also a number of great activities that the whole family can enjoy including exploring the Colosseum, taking a gladiator class, and eating gelato.

Is Biarritz or Rome Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Biarritz and Rome 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 Rome frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With many beautiful buildings, world class restaurants, and world renowned sights, this city makes a great romantic destination.

Is Biarritz or Rome Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rome 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, Rome is extremely popular for backpackers. Backpackers will find no shortage of hostels where they can stay, particularly near the main train station where accommodation is particularly cheap (but not always the best quality).

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 Rome Better for Students?

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

Many students frequent Rome. The city is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find plenty of international students here.

Biarritz is not popular with students.

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

Rome 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.

Rome has a great public transit system. There's a metro system, trams, and a comprehensive bus system that goes around the city.

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 Rome a more walkable city?

Rome 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 Rome. You'll find many of the most popular sights in a compact area that's easily explored on foot. Do watch out for traffic, which can be a bit chaotic at times.

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 Rome Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Rome or Biarritz?

How long in Biarritz or Rome?

Both Biarritz and Rome have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Rome has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Rome than Biarritz. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Rome than Biarritz. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Rome, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

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

One day in Biarritz or Rome?

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.

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

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.

Rome is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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.

Five days in Biarritz or Rome?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the dynamic 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.

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

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the dynamic 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.

Rome is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Rome 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 Rome, we can see that Rome 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 Rome would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Rome 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 Rome Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Biarritz or Rome?

Rome has a larger population, and is about 80 times larger than the population of Biarritz. When comparing the sizes of Biarritz and Rome, 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 Rome?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Biarritz or Rome in the Summer?

Both Rome and Biarritz during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Biarritz in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Rome for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Biarritz is cooler than Rome. Typically, the summer temperatures in Biarritz in July average around 20°C (68°F), and Rome averages at about 25°C (77°F).

In Rome, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Biarritz. In the summer, Biarritz often gets less sunshine than Rome. Biarritz gets 209 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 338 hours of full sun.

Biarritz usually gets more rain in July than Rome. Biarritz gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Rome receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Biarritz or Rome in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Biarritz and Rome. Most visitors come to Biarritz for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Rome 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 Rome. Daily temperatures in Biarritz average around 16°C (60°F), and Rome fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Biarritz usually receives less sunshine than Rome during autumn. Biarritz gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 198 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Biarritz gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Biarritz usually receives more rain than Rome. Biarritz gets 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Rome receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Biarritz or Rome in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Biarritz as well as Rome. 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 Rome this time of year.

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

In the winter, Biarritz often gets less sunshine than Rome. Biarritz gets 85 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rome receives 127 hours of full sun.

Biarritz receives a lot of rain in the winter. Biarritz usually gets more rain in January than Rome. Biarritz gets 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain, while Rome receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Biarritz or Rome in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Biarritz is cooler than Rome. Typically, the spring temperatures in Biarritz in April average around 12°C (54°F), and Rome averages at about 14°C (57°F).

It's quite sunny in Rome. Biarritz usually receives less sunshine than Rome during spring. Biarritz gets 141 hours of sunny skies, while Rome receives 204 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Biarritz. In April, Biarritz usually receives more rain than Rome. Biarritz gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Rome receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Rome and Biarritz