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

Should you visit Biarritz or Zaragoza?

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

Should I visit Biarritz or Zaragoza? 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 relaxing, quirky, and dynamic seaside town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and beaches.

Zaragoza

Zaragoza is a historical, compact, and authentic city. 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 Zaragoza: 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
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Biarritz or Zaragoza?

Both Zaragoza and Biarritz have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Biarritz is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, and small town charm, while Zaragoza is known for its museums, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Biarritz is more touristy than Zaragoza and is popular for its surfing culture, long beaches, and seaside atmosphere. Zaragoza is popular for its grand landmarks, local cuisine, and rich cultural scene.

How is Biarritz different from Zaragoza?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Biarritz
Zaragoza

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

Zaragoza offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. For such a small city, it really has a large number of cultural and historical attractions. The Basilica of Our Lady of Pilar is the most recognizable sight, but there's also the Museum of the Roman Forum of Caesaraugusta, the cathedral of Zaragoza, and the AljaferĂ­a Palace, among others.

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 Zaragoza? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Biarritz
Zaragoza

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at very good restaurants in both Biarritz and Zaragoza.

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 Zaragoza is an experience not to be missed. There are authentic restaurants that cater to locals and tourists alike. You'll also find some interesting food tours around town. Tapas are popular, as is chocolate and fresh, traditional recipes.

Is Biarritz or Zaragoza Better for Nightlife?

Biarritz
Zaragoza

Biarritz is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Biarritz has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Zaragoza. The nightlife is at its best on weekends, when students and young locals head out on the town. Many evenings start with tapas and wine, but there are nightclubs and dancing as well.

Is Biarritz or Zaragoza Better for Resorts?

Biarritz
Zaragoza

Biarritz is notable for its resorts. However, Zaragoza is not a resort destination.

Biarritz is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. You'll find a mix of holiday cottages, vacation rentals, and beachfront hotels. There are also hostels around town for those on a budget.

Zaragoza is not a resort destination.


Is Biarritz or Zaragoza Better for Beaches?

Biarritz
Zaragoza

Biarritz is notable for the beach. However, Zaragoza is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Biarritz. 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.

Zaragoza is not a beach destination.

Is Biarritz or Zaragoza Better for its Old Town?

Biarritz
Zaragoza

Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza. The old town is small but filled with monumental buildings and an authentic atmosphere.

Biarritz does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Biarritz or Zaragoza?

Biarritz
Zaragoza

Shoppers can find a variety of very good stores in both Biarritz and Zaragoza.

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 Zaragoza. The city has many local shops selling locally produced items and interesting souvenirs. There are also boutiques, markets, and vintage shops that are fun to browse though.


Is Biarritz or Zaragoza Better for Families?

Biarritz
Zaragoza

Biarritz is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Zaragoza is a family-friendly seaside town. When your kids get their fill of architecture and history, you can head to the Zaragoza Aquarium. Also worth a visit is the Emoz Museum, which is an origami museum. And if you need a break from sightseeing, take a kayak out on the Ebro River.

Is Biarritz or Zaragoza Better for Couples?

Biarritz
Zaragoza

With fun activities for couples, both Biarritz and Zaragoza make for a very good 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 Zaragoza frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Filled with culture, beauty, and monumental buildings, this is a small and romantic city. It's particularly romantic at night when the streets are quiet and many of the buildings are lit up.

Is Biarritz or Zaragoza Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Biarritz
Zaragoza

Biarritz is notable for backpackers. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Zaragoza is a good seaside town to visit for backpackers. There are enough hostels around town to choose from, and while it's not the backpacker haven that some Spanish cities are, it still sees a good number of young travelers.


Is Biarritz or Zaragoza Better for Students?

Biarritz
Zaragoza

Zaragoza is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Biarritz is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Zaragoza. International students enjoy this small city because it has a local vibe where they can practice their Spanish and enjoy an authentic experience.

Biarritz is not popular with students.

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

Biarritz
Zaragoza

Zaragoza is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Biarritz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Public transit in Zaragoza can get you to some places easily. There are buses and trams 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 Zaragoza a more walkable city?

Biarritz
Zaragoza

Biarritz and Zaragoza are very good 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.

Zaragoza is a very walkable destination. The city center is very walkable.


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

Should I spend more time in Zaragoza or Biarritz?

How long in Biarritz or Zaragoza?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Biarritz and Zaragoza. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Biarritz than in Zaragoza. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Biarritz, and 1-3 days is enough time in Zaragoza.

Families should spend more time in Biarritz than Zaragoza. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Biarritz than Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza? Ideal Length of Stay
    Biarritz 3-7 
    Zaragoza 1-3

One day in Biarritz or Zaragoza?

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.

The beautiful city of Zaragoza offers food and shopping. 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 Zaragoza?

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.

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

Five days in Biarritz or Zaragoza?

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.

Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza?

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.

Zaragoza 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 2-Week Tours from Barcelona, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Spain.


Which place is cheaper, Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza is €126. 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 Zaragoza in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Biarritz 74
    Zaragoza 65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Biarritz 148
    Zaragoza 130
Compare Hotels in Biarritz and Zaragoza

Looking for a hotel in Biarritz or Zaragoza? 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 Zaragoza


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 Zaragoza Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Biarritz 39
    Zaragoza 23

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Biarritz

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

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zaragoza

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zaragoza:

  • Zaragoza Private Transfer from the city centre to Zaragoza Airport: $66
  • Zaragoza Private Transfer from Zaragoza Airport to City centre: $66
  • Zaragoza Downtown hotels to Zaragoza Airport (ZAZ) - Departure Private Transfer: $27
  • Zaragoza Airport (ZAZ) to Zaragoza Downtown hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $55
  • Zaragoza Airport (ZAZ) to Zaragoza Downtown hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $27
  • Private transfers Airport-hotel Zaragoza.: $66

Is it cheaper to fly into Biarritz or Zaragoza?

Prices for flights to both Zaragoza 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
    Zaragoza 41

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 Zaragoza

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

  • Midday Market Tour and Spanish Cooking Class: $108

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Biarritz 16
    Zaragoza 35

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 Zaragoza

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Zaragoza are as follows:

  • Complete tour + wine and tapas: $202
  • Evening traditional tapas walking tour in old Zaragoza center: $104
  • Haft-day Winery tour from Zaragoza: $158
  • Kayaking in Fluvial EcoTourism with ebroNAUTAS: $44
  • Midday Olive Oil Tour and Visit to Old Town of Belchite: $102
  • Midday market and tapas tour of Zaragoza: $104
  • Monumental Walking Tour in Old Town of Zaragoza: $93
  • Olive Oil Tour and Visit to Belchite Old Town: $104
  • Olive Oil and Winery Tour from Zaragoza City: $164
  • Private custom tour with a local guide Zaragoza: $49
  • Zaragoza - Historic Walking Tour: $320
  • Zaragoza : Aquarium entry ticket: $19

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Biarritz 8.05
    Zaragoza 14

Sample the Local Flavors in Zaragoza

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Zaragoza:

  • Wine Tasting and Tapas: $102
  • Wine Tasting and Tapas in the ancient Town of Zaragoza: $104


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


Which is Bigger, Biarritz or Zaragoza?

Zaragoza has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Biarritz. When comparing the sizes of Biarritz and Zaragoza, 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 Zaragoza?

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 Zaragoza in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Biarritz as well as Zaragoza. Many travelers come to Biarritz for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Zaragoza in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Biarritz is cooler than Zaragoza. Typically, the summer temperatures in Biarritz in July average around 20°C (68°F), and Zaragoza averages at about 26°C (79°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zaragoza. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Biarritz this time of the year. In the summer, Biarritz often gets less sunshine than Zaragoza. Biarritz gets 209 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zaragoza receives 344 hours of full sun.

Biarritz usually gets more rain in July than Zaragoza. Biarritz gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Zaragoza receives 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Biarritz 20°C (68°F) 
    Zaragoza 26°C (79°F)

Should I visit Biarritz or Zaragoza in the Autumn?

Both Zaragoza and Biarritz are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Biarritz in the autumn for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere. Also, most visitors come to Zaragoza for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

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

Biarritz usually receives less sunshine than Zaragoza during autumn. Biarritz gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Zaragoza receives 196 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Biarritz. In October, Biarritz usually receives more rain than Zaragoza. Biarritz gets 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Zaragoza receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


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

Should I visit Biarritz or Zaragoza in the Winter?

Both Zaragoza and Biarritz during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Biarritz for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Zaragoza because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Biarritz is around the same temperature as Zaragoza in the winter. The daily temperature in Biarritz averages around 8°C (47°F) in January, and Zaragoza fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

In the winter, Biarritz often gets less sunshine than Zaragoza. Biarritz gets 85 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Zaragoza receives 131 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Biarritz. Biarritz usually gets more rain in January than Zaragoza. Biarritz gets 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain, while Zaragoza receives 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Biarritz 8°C (47°F) 
    Zaragoza 8°C (46°F)

Should I visit Biarritz or Zaragoza in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Biarritz and Zaragoza. The spring months attract visitors to Biarritz because of the beaches and the small town charm. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Zaragoza this time of year.

In the spring, Biarritz is cooler than Zaragoza. Typically, the spring temperatures in Biarritz in April average around 12°C (54°F), and Zaragoza averages at about 15°C (58°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zaragoza this time of the year. Biarritz usually receives less sunshine than Zaragoza during spring. Biarritz gets 141 hours of sunny skies, while Zaragoza receives 217 hours of full sun in the spring.

Biarritz gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Biarritz usually receives more rain than Zaragoza. Biarritz gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Zaragoza receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Biarritz 12°C (54°F) 
    Zaragoza 15°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Zaragoza and Biarritz

Biarritz Zaragoza
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 8°C (47°F) 183 mm (7.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 23 mm (0.9 in)
Feb 9°C (49°F) 147 mm (5.8 in) 10°C (50°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Mar 10°C (51°F) 148 mm (5.8 in) 12°C (54°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Apr 12°C (54°F) 163 mm (6.4 in) 15°C (58°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
May 15°C (59°F) 139 mm (5.5 in) 19°C (65°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
Jun 18°C (64°F) 92 mm (3.6 in) 23°C (73°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Jul 20°C (68°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 26°C (79°F) 17 mm (0.7 in)
Aug 20°C (68°F) 115 mm (4.5 in) 26°C (78°F) 25 mm (1 in)
Sep 18°C (65°F) 134 mm (5.3 in) 22°C (72°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Oct 16°C (60°F) 155 mm (6.1 in) 17°C (63°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)
Nov 11°C (52°F) 190 mm (7.5 in) 12°C (53°F) 39 mm (1.6 in)
Dec 9°C (49°F) 184 mm (7.2 in) 8°C (47°F) 26 mm (1 in)


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