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

Should you visit Biarritz or Urbino?

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

Should I visit Biarritz or Urbino? 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.

Urbino

Urbino is a authentic, laid back, and historic town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Biarritz and Urbino: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Biarritz or Urbino?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Biarritz. Although Biarritz and Urbino are both popular with visitors, Biarritz has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Biarritz is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, shopping, and small town charm, while Urbino is known for its museums, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Biarritz is more touristy than Urbino and is known for its surfing culture, long beaches, and seaside atmosphere. It is also home to Grande Plage. Urbino is popular for its Renaissance walls, historic center, and authentic atmosphere.

How is Biarritz different from Urbino?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Biarritz
Urbino

Urbino is a popular place for its museums and history. However, Biarritz is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

Urbino offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. At the heart of the city are its historical sights. The cathedral is worth a visit, as is The Ducal Palace, but for most visitors, simply soaking up the town's atmosphere is the best experience.

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 Urbino? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Biarritz
Urbino

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at excellent restaurants in both Biarritz and Urbino.

Biarritz has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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).

Dining out in Urbino is an experience not to be missed. The city's history has influenced its cuisine. Traditional foods include cornbread, truffles, and meat sausage. While these options aren't as common today, you can still find them if you seek them out.

Is Biarritz or Urbino Better for Nightlife?

Biarritz
Urbino

Biarritz is great for its evening party scene. Also, Urbino is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Urbino. Because of the large student population, there are usually some fun activities going on at night. You'll find some good bars around town that are fun to hang out at.

Is Biarritz or Urbino Better for Resorts?

Biarritz
Urbino

Biarritz is great for its luxury resorts. However, Urbino 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.

Urbino is not a resort destination.


Is Biarritz or Urbino Better for Beaches?

Biarritz
Urbino

Biarritz is great for the beach. However, Urbino 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.

Urbino is not a beach destination.

Is Biarritz or Urbino Better for its Old Town?

Biarritz
Urbino

Urbino is a popular place for its old town. However, Biarritz does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Urbino. The historic center feels a bit undiscovered by Italian standards. There are stone houses and the town is built on a steep hill, giving it a beautiful setting.

Biarritz does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Biarritz or Urbino?

Biarritz
Urbino

Biarritz is great for its shopping areas. Also, Urbino is not as popular, but is still a nice town for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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.

Urbino is a great destination for shopping. You'll find galleries, book shops, and jewelry stores around town that are fun to pop into.


Is Biarritz or Urbino Better for Families?

Biarritz
Urbino

Biarritz is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Urbino is not a good destination 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.

Urbino is not the most family-friendly destination. The city is filled with history and architecture, which may be lost on the kids. There are the classic Italian restaurants which is a favorite among kids and adults alike.

Is Biarritz or Urbino Better for Couples?

Biarritz
Urbino

With fun activities for couples, both Biarritz and Urbino 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 Urbino frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This walled city is fun to explore and can make for a great romantic stop. The city is walled and has many historical buildings which couples will enjoy learning about together.

Is Biarritz or Urbino Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Biarritz
Urbino

Biarritz is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Urbino is not a good destination 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.

Urbino is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not well known by backpackers and there are a very limited number of hostels in the area.


Is Biarritz or Urbino Better for Students?

Biarritz
Urbino

Urbino is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Biarritz is not popular with students.

Urbino is a very popular town for students and younger travelers. The student population is a large part of this small city. University students are usually happy and enjoy many activities and outings into the surrounding area.

Biarritz is not popular with students.

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

Biarritz
Urbino

Biarritz is a seaside town with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Urbino is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Biarritz offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are regional bus lines to nearby towns operated by Chronoplus and PESA.

Public transit is generally limited in Urbino. The town is accessible by bus but not by train.

Is Biarritz or Urbino a more walkable city?

Biarritz
Urbino

Biarritz is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Urbino is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its walkability.

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

Urbino is somewhat walkable. Many parts of the city are easy to explore on foot.


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

Should I spend more time in Urbino or Biarritz?

How long in Biarritz or Urbino?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Biarritz or Urbino to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Biarritz than Urbino because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Biarritz, and 1-2 days is enough time in Urbino.

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

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


  • How many days in Biarritz or Urbino? Ideal Length of Stay
    Biarritz 3-7 
    Urbino 1-2

One day in Biarritz or Urbino?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Biarritz. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The beautiful town of Urbino offers food and shopping. 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 Urbino?

Biarritz is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

Five days in Biarritz or Urbino?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Biarritz. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Urbino 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 Urbino?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the dynamic destination of Biarritz. This seaside town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Urbino is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town 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 2-Week Tours in Italy, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Urbino or Biarritz?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Biarritz is €131, while the average daily cost in Urbino is €118. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Biarritz and Urbino in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Biarritz 74
    Urbino 53
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Biarritz 148
    Urbino 106
Compare Hotels in Biarritz and Urbino

Looking for a hotel in Biarritz or Urbino? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Biarritz


Hotels in Urbino


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Biarritz Hotel Prices and Urbino Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Biarritz 39
    Urbino 44

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Biarritz

Also for Biarritz, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Biarritz : Optimized transfer to/from Bordeaux: $749
  • San Sebastian: Optimized transfer to Biarritz & surroundings: $262
  • Private transfer from Biarritz BIQ airport to San Sebastian: $229
  • Private Transfer from Biarritz city to San Sebastian : $167
  • Private Transfer from Biarritz city to San Sebastian Airport: $167
  • Arrival Private Transfer BIQ Airport to Biarritz by Luxury Vehicle: $85
  • Chauffeured Transfer between Biarritz Airport, Train Station and City Center: $71
  • Biarritz : Private transfer to/from airport & train Station: $70

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Urbino

Also for Urbino, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Borgo Maggiore to Rimini (RMI) Airport: $108

Is it cheaper to fly into Biarritz or Urbino?

Prices for flights to both Urbino and Biarritz change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Biarritz 34
    Urbino 39

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Biarritz

For Biarritz, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Biarritz Food Tour Gastronomique- Taste 10 Basque specialties: $76
  • Bayonne Food Tour: Journey Through Flavors (with food and drinks): $97
  • Traditional Bayonne Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $104
  • Basque Country Food Tour: $240

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Biarritz 16
    Urbino 15

Tours and Activities in Biarritz

For Biarritz, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Basque tour of Biarritz: $49
  • Bayonne Food Gastronomic Tour - Taste 10 Basque specialties: $97
  • Bayonne Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $279
  • Biarritz guided walking & gourmet tour: $74
  • Biarritz, Bayonne, and Basque Country: Private Driving Tour: $957
  • 2-Hour Private Guided Walking Tour: $187
  • City Exploration Game & Tour on your Phone: $6.36
  • Complete Self-guided Audio Tour on your Phone: $8.45
  • E-bike Guided Tour With Sunset local Aperitif Ride: $32
  • E-bike Guided Tour to Small California: $37
  • French Basque Country Coastline tour in a 70'sVW Van: $457
  • French Basque Country Private Day Tour in an 70's VW Combi: $599

Tours and Activities in Urbino

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Urbino.

  • E-BIKE Tour San Marino for couples: $114
  • Entrance Ticket - Titanus Museum: Multimedia Experience: $8.68
  • From Montefeltro Tour with Truffle Lunch: $396
  • Guided Tour of San Marino at Sunset with aperitif included: $184
  • Guided group tour of Ducal Palace and National Gallery: $94
  • Private Guided Tour with Aperitif in Winebar in San Marino: $92
  • Private Tour of San Marino: UNESCO World Heritage Site: $172
  • Private tour with Welcome KIT in San Marino: $136
  • San Marino Scavenger Hunt and Sightseeing Tour: $8.97
  • San Marino’s Starlit Stroll: A Christmas Walking Tour: $153
  • San Marino: A Self Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • San Marino: Food Tasting Tour: $195

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Biarritz 8.05
    Urbino 14


When comparing the travel costs between Biarritz and Urbino, we can see that Biarritz is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Biarritz Expensive? and Is Urbino Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Biarritz or Urbino?

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

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 Urbino in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Biarritz and Urbino. 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 Urbino for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

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

In July, Biarritz usually receives more rain than Urbino. Biarritz gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Urbino receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Biarritz 20°C (68°F) 
    Urbino 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Biarritz or Urbino in the Autumn?

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

In October, Biarritz is generally around the same temperature as Urbino. Daily temperatures in Biarritz average around 16°C (60°F), and Urbino fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

Biarritz receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Biarritz usually gets more rain in October than Urbino. Biarritz gets 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Urbino receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Biarritz 16°C (60°F) 
    Urbino 15°C (59°F)

Should I visit Biarritz or Urbino in the Winter?

Both Urbino 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 Urbino this time of year.

It's quite cold in Urbino in the winter. Biarritz is much warmer than Urbino in the winter. The daily temperature in Biarritz averages around 8°C (47°F) in January, and Urbino fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

It's quite rainy in Biarritz. In January, Biarritz usually receives more rain than Urbino. Biarritz gets 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain, while Urbino receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Biarritz 8°C (47°F) 
    Urbino 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Biarritz or Urbino in the Spring?

Both Urbino 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 Urbino for the natural beauty.

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

It rains a lot this time of the year in Biarritz. Biarritz usually gets more rain in April than Urbino. Biarritz gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Urbino receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Biarritz 12°C (54°F) 
    Urbino 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for Urbino and Biarritz

Biarritz Urbino
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 8°C (47°F) 183 mm (7.2 in) 3°C (37°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Feb 9°C (49°F) 147 mm (5.8 in) 5°C (42°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 10°C (51°F) 148 mm (5.8 in) 9°C (49°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Apr 12°C (54°F) 163 mm (6.4 in) 12°C (54°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
May 15°C (59°F) 139 mm (5.5 in) 16°C (61°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jun 18°C (64°F) 92 mm (3.6 in) 20°C (68°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 20°C (68°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 23°C (73°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Aug 20°C (68°F) 115 mm (4.5 in) 22°C (71°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Sep 18°C (65°F) 134 mm (5.3 in) 19°C (67°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Oct 16°C (60°F) 155 mm (6.1 in) 15°C (59°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Nov 11°C (52°F) 190 mm (7.5 in) 9°C (49°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Dec 9°C (49°F) 184 mm (7.2 in) 4°C (39°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)


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