A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Biarritz vs. Ventimiglia for Food, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Biarritz or Ventimiglia?

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

Should I visit Biarritz or Ventimiglia? 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.

Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia is a classic, authentic, and elegant seaside town. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and food.

Biarritz and Ventimiglia: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Biarritz or Ventimiglia?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Biarritz. Although Biarritz and Ventimiglia are both popular with visitors, Biarritz has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Biarritz is more popular for its museums, nightlife, resorts, and beaches, while Ventimiglia is known for its historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Biarritz is more touristy than Ventimiglia and is popular for its surfing culture, long beaches, and seaside atmosphere. It is also home to Grande Plage. Ventimiglia is popular for its weekly market, colorful old town, and nice beaches.

How is Biarritz different from Ventimiglia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Biarritz
Ventimiglia

Biarritz is a seaside town with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Ventimiglia does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Ventimiglia does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Biarritz
Ventimiglia

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at high quality restaurants in both Biarritz and Ventimiglia.

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 Ventimiglia is an experience not to be missed. Italian classics are abundant including tiramisus, Italian pizzas, risotto alla milanese, and traditional lasagna. If you're in town on a Friday you should visit the local market which has stalls selling local produce and foods.

Is Biarritz or Ventimiglia Better for Nightlife?

Biarritz
Ventimiglia

Biarritz is a great destination for its evening party scene. However, Ventimiglia is a seaside town with minimal options for nightlife.

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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Ventimiglia Most people don't head to town for the nightlife, but there are some bars where you can grab a drink or sip a glass of wine.

Is Biarritz or Ventimiglia Better for Resorts?

Biarritz
Ventimiglia

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

Biarritz is known as a popular and fun resort destination. You'll find a mix of holiday cottages, vacation rentals, and beachfront hotels. There are also hostels around town for those on a budget.

Ventimiglia is not a resort destination.


Is Biarritz or Ventimiglia Better for Beaches?

Biarritz
Ventimiglia

Biarritz is a great destination for the beach. Also, Ventimiglia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its beaches.

Biarritz is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Many people head to Ventimiglia to enjoy the beach. The lungomare is a promenade along the sea that allows visitors to wander and take in waterfront views. Most of the beaches are free to access and have been influenced by the coastal erosion efforts which have led to a series of scalloped bays. If you reach the end of the lungomare you'll find a natural area where the Roya and Nervia rivers meet the ocean. This is also a popular spot for breeding birds.

Is Biarritz or Ventimiglia Better for its Old Town?

Biarritz
Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia is an excellent place to visit for its old town. However, Biarritz does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Ventimiglia. The old town is filled with cobblestone streets and charming pastel buildings. There are also a number of historic buildings and monuments that give the town a special atmosphere.

Biarritz does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Biarritz or Ventimiglia?

Biarritz
Ventimiglia

Shoppers can find a variety of high quality stores in both Biarritz and Ventimiglia.

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 Ventimiglia. Most people head in town on Friday for the market, which has stalls selling crafts and local products.


Is Biarritz or Ventimiglia Better for Families?

Biarritz
Ventimiglia

Biarritz is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ventimiglia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Biarritz is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Ventimiglia offers lots of family activities. The charming town is a great place for kids to explore. There is a botanical garden and hiking trails that the whole family can enjoy as well as quiet beaches where they can play. The Italian food is also perfect for young palates.

Is Biarritz or Ventimiglia Better for Couples?

Biarritz
Ventimiglia

With fun activities for couples, both Biarritz and Ventimiglia make for a high quality 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 Ventimiglia frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This quintessential Italian town offers a romantic setting with cobblestone streets and pastel buildings. There are many culinary delights and romantic settings that are perfect for couples. The hiking trails and botanical gardens are also fun places to explore.

Is Biarritz or Ventimiglia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Biarritz
Ventimiglia

Biarritz is a great destination for backpackers. However, Ventimiglia is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Ventimiglia is not a backpacker-friendly destination.


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

Biarritz
Ventimiglia

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

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 Ventimiglia, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are trains and buses to town. Once you're in town it's easy to explore on foot.

Is Biarritz or Ventimiglia a more walkable city?

Biarritz
Ventimiglia

Biarritz and Ventimiglia are high quality when it comes to walkability.

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

Ventimiglia is a very walkable destination. It's small size and charming atmosphere make it a great town to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Ventimiglia or Biarritz?

How long in Biarritz or Ventimiglia?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Biarritz or Ventimiglia to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Biarritz than Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia.

Families should spend more time in Biarritz than Ventimiglia. 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 Ventimiglia. 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 Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia? Ideal Length of Stay
    Biarritz 3-7 
    Ventimiglia 1-2

One day in Biarritz or Ventimiglia?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the dynamic seaside town of Biarritz. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Ventimiglia is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. 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 Ventimiglia?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the dynamic destination of Biarritz. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This seaside town offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Ventimiglia is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this seaside town 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 Ventimiglia, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Biarritz or Ventimiglia?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the quirky seaside town of Biarritz. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Biarritz. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this seaside town.

Ventimiglia 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 seaside 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 Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia is €121. 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 Ventimiglia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Biarritz 74
    Ventimiglia 51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Biarritz 148
    Ventimiglia 102
Compare Hotels in Biarritz and Ventimiglia

Looking for a hotel in Biarritz or Ventimiglia? 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 Ventimiglia


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 Ventimiglia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Biarritz 39
    Ventimiglia 49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Biarritz

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

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Biarritz or Ventimiglia?

Prices for flights to both Ventimiglia 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
    Ventimiglia 38

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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Ventimiglia

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Ventimiglia.

  • Cooking Class Pesto Sauce: $75
  • Cooking Class Tiramisu': $86
  • SANREMO FOOD TOUR - Authentic Ligurian street food and Medieval town: $95
  • Pizza Making Class in Sanremo: $140
  • Sanremo Home Cooking Class: $221

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Biarritz 16
    Ventimiglia 27

Tours and Activities in Biarritz

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

  • Pierre IBAIALDE: Guided Tour Ham Workshop, tasting: $5.46
  • City Exploration Game & Tour on your Phone: $6.36
  • Complete Self-guided Audio Tour on your Phone: $8.45
  • Walking tours of Biarritz: $22
  • E-bike Guided Tour With Sunset local Aperitif Ride: $32
  • E-bike Guided Tour to Small California: $37
  • Basque tour of Biarritz: $49
  • Unusual Guided Tour in a Segway in Biarritz: $59
  • Biarritz guided walking & gourmet tour: $74
  • Bayonne Food Gastronomic Tour - Taste 10 Basque specialties: $97
  • Guided Tapas Tour Hondarribia from Hendaye with Food and Drinks: $108
  • Private E-bike Guided Tour: $155

Tours and Activities in Ventimiglia

Here are a few actual costs in Ventimiglia for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 1 Day road bike tour of Ligurian mountains from Italian Riviera : $76
  • Art studio tour in Italian sculpture gardens: $34
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Sanremo: $114
  • Small Group E-bike Tour in the Ligurian Riviera with Lunch: $109
  • Vespa Tour in Sanremo for half a day: $92
  • sculpting art experience in Italy,class in sculpture gardens: $192

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Biarritz 8.05
    Ventimiglia 7.19


When comparing the travel costs between Biarritz and Ventimiglia, 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 Ventimiglia Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Biarritz or Ventimiglia?

Biarritz has a larger population, and is about 35% larger than the population of Ventimiglia. When comparing the sizes of Biarritz and Ventimiglia, 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 Ventimiglia?

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 Ventimiglia in the Summer?

Both Ventimiglia and Biarritz during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Biarritz because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Ventimiglia this time of year.

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

In Ventimiglia, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Biarritz. In the summer, Biarritz often gets less sunshine than Ventimiglia. Biarritz gets 209 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ventimiglia receives 295 hours of full sun.

Biarritz usually gets more rain in July than Ventimiglia. Biarritz gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Ventimiglia receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Biarritz or Ventimiglia in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Biarritz and Ventimiglia. The shopping scene and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Biarritz this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Ventimiglia for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

Biarritz usually receives less sunshine than Ventimiglia during autumn. Biarritz gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Ventimiglia receives 183 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Ventimiglia receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Biarritz gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Biarritz usually receives more rain than Ventimiglia. Biarritz gets 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Ventimiglia receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Biarritz 16°C (60°F) 
    Ventimiglia 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Biarritz or Ventimiglia in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Biarritz as well as Ventimiglia. Many travelers come to Biarritz for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Ventimiglia in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Biarritz is around the same temperature as Ventimiglia in the winter. The daily temperature in Biarritz averages around 8°C (47°F) in January, and Ventimiglia fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

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

Biarritz receives a lot of rain in the winter. Biarritz usually gets more rain in January than Ventimiglia. Biarritz gets 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain, while Ventimiglia receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Biarritz 8°C (47°F) 
    Ventimiglia 9°C (48°F)

Should I visit Biarritz or Ventimiglia in the Spring?

Both Ventimiglia and Biarritz are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Biarritz in the spring for the beaches and the small town charm. Also, most visitors come to Ventimiglia for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Biarritz is around the same temperature as Ventimiglia. Typically, the spring temperatures in Biarritz in April average around 12°C (54°F), and Ventimiglia averages at about 13°C (56°F).

Biarritz usually receives less sunshine than Ventimiglia during spring. Biarritz gets 141 hours of sunny skies, while Ventimiglia receives 198 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Biarritz. In April, Biarritz usually receives more rain than Ventimiglia. Biarritz gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Ventimiglia receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Biarritz 12°C (54°F) 
    Ventimiglia 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Ventimiglia and Biarritz

Biarritz Ventimiglia
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 8°C (47°F) 183 mm (7.2 in) 9°C (48°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 9°C (49°F) 147 mm (5.8 in) 9°C (49°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Mar 10°C (51°F) 148 mm (5.8 in) 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 12°C (54°F) 163 mm (6.4 in) 13°C (56°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
May 15°C (59°F) 139 mm (5.5 in) 16°C (62°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jun 18°C (64°F) 92 mm (3.6 in) 20°C (68°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Jul 20°C (68°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 23°C (73°F) 16 mm (0.6 in)
Aug 20°C (68°F) 115 mm (4.5 in) 23°C (73°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Sep 18°C (65°F) 134 mm (5.3 in) 21°C (69°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 16°C (60°F) 155 mm (6.1 in) 17°C (63°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Nov 11°C (52°F) 190 mm (7.5 in) 12°C (54°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Dec 9°C (49°F) 184 mm (7.2 in) 10°C (49°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)


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