A Travel Price Comparison for France Bordeaux vs. Auxerre for Food, Couples, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Bordeaux or Auxerre?

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

Should I visit Bordeaux or Auxerre? 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.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a historical, elegant, and charming city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Auxerre

Auxerre is a under-rated, undiscovered, and authentic town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. And you can't forget about the food and museums.

Bordeaux and Auxerre: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Bordeaux or Auxerre?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bordeaux. Although Bordeaux and Auxerre are both popular with visitors, Bordeaux has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Bordeaux is more popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Auxerre is known for its small town charm. Bordeaux is more touristy than Auxerre and is popular for its world-renowned wine and the many nearby vineyards. It is also home to Cathédrale Saint-André. Auxerre is popular for its food, wine, and art history.

How is Bordeaux different from Auxerre?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Auxerre and Bordeaux. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bordeaux or Auxerre?

Bordeaux
Auxerre

Plenty of people visit the good sights and museums in both Bordeaux and Auxerre.

Bordeaux offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The city has many historical landmarks and museums to explore. Cathédrale Saint-André, Tour Le Grand-Théâtre, and Basilique Saint-Seurin are all notable monuments that are worth visiting.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Auxerre. Although the town is often overlooked by tourists, there are many nice cathedrals and churches around town.


Is the Food Better in Bordeaux or Auxerre? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bordeaux
Auxerre

Bordeaux is an amazing city to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Bordeaux has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Both food and wine are a major draw to this culinary city, which is known for its pastries and rich flavors. Popular local dishes include grilled duck, duck foie gras, and canelés.

Auxerre offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The town is a the heart of the wine industry, so you'll find many great restaurants where you can enjoy local food and wine.

Is Bordeaux or Auxerre Better for Nightlife?

Bordeaux
Auxerre

Bordeaux is very good for its evening party scene. However, Auxerre is not a good destination for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Bordeaux has a few options to choose from. The city comes to life at night with dance clubs, wine bars, student pubs, and more.

Most people don't head to Auxerre specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It has a quiet nightlife with some nice bars and pubs.

Is Bordeaux or Auxerre Better for its Old Town?

Bordeaux
Auxerre

Bordeaux is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Auxerre does not have a historic old town.

Bordeaux has an old town worth visiting. The old town is between Cours de l'Intendance and rue Peyronnet. The area has many distinct neighborhoods, monuments, and historical buildings.

Auxerre does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Bordeaux or Auxerre?

Bordeaux
Auxerre

Bordeaux is great for its shopping areas. However, Auxerre is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Bordeaux. The city has a mix of luxury fashion brands, jewelry shops, perfume suppliers, and leather goods. There are department stores, local boutiques, and pedestrian shopping areas that you can explore.

Auxerre is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Bordeaux or Auxerre Better for Families?

Bordeaux
Auxerre

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Bordeaux or Auxerre.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Bordeaux. The city has a number of parks and playgrounds as well as museums, including a kid's science museum. Kids also enjoy splashing around in the Miroir d’eau, which is the world's largest water mirror.

Auxerre offers lots of family activities. There's the Zoo de La Fleche and the Aquarium de Touraine. You can also wander through Musee de l'Avallon or des Plantes.

Is Bordeaux or Auxerre Better for Couples?

Bordeaux
Auxerre

Bordeaux is great for couples. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for romance.

Bordeaux is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Wine lovers will enjoy an amazing weekend in this beautiful city. Some of the most romantic activities include wine walks, river cruises, and exploring scenic gardens.

Auxerre is a nice destination for couples. There are many great eateries as well nice architecture and, of course, excellent wine.


Is Bordeaux or Auxerre Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bordeaux
Auxerre

Bordeaux is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Auxerre is not a good destination for backpackers.

Bordeaux is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a handful of hostels and a diversity of activities that backpackers can enjoy.

Auxerre is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a popular stop off on the backpacker circuit, but you will find some affordable accommodation options.

Is Bordeaux or Auxerre Better for Students?

Bordeaux
Auxerre

Bordeaux is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Auxerre is not popular with students.

Bordeaux is very popular with students. The city has a great student atmosphere and a unique culture with a diversity of activities. It's grown in popularity with students, and the prices have climbed a bit over the past few years.

Auxerre is not popular with students.

Is Bordeaux or Auxerre Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bordeaux
Auxerre

Bordeaux is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its public transit.

The public transit in Bordeaux can get you to most places easily. There are buses, trams and a ferry that runs along the river.

Auxerre has a few public transit options. There are buses around town.


Is Bordeaux or Auxerre a more walkable city?

Bordeaux
Auxerre

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

Bordeaux is a very walkable destination. The city has many pedestrian areas and large squares to explore.

Auxerre is somewhat walkable. The center is walkable but it is a bit more difficult to navigate than some nearby towns.

For even more information, also check out Is Bordeaux Worth Visiting? and Is Auxerre Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Auxerre or Bordeaux?

How long in Bordeaux or Auxerre?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Bordeaux or Auxerre to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Bordeaux than Auxerre because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Bordeaux, and 1-2 days is enough time in Auxerre.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bordeaux than Auxerre 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 Bordeaux.


  • How many days in Bordeaux or Auxerre? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bordeaux 2-5 
    Auxerre 1-2

One day in Bordeaux or Auxerre?

In Bordeaux, you'll find nightlife and food. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The town of Auxerre offers museums and food. 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 Bordeaux or Auxerre?

In Bordeaux, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bordeaux has to offer.

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


Five days in Bordeaux or Auxerre?

Bordeaux is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bordeaux has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Auxerre 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 Bordeaux or Auxerre?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bordeaux. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bordeaux. One reason most visitors come is for the food. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Auxerre 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 10-Day Tours from Paris, The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to France, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Auxerre or Bordeaux?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Bordeaux is €118, while the average daily cost in Auxerre is €113. 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 Bordeaux and Auxerre in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bordeaux 63
    Auxerre 51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bordeaux 126
    Auxerre 102
Compare Hotels in Bordeaux and Auxerre

Looking for a hotel in Bordeaux or Auxerre? 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 Bordeaux


Hotels in Auxerre


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: Bordeaux Hotel Prices and Auxerre Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bordeaux 15
    Auxerre 46

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bordeaux

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bordeaux:

  • Airport to Bordeaux Premium Class Private Transfer: $272
  • Private Transfer from Airport to Bordeaux City: $165
  • Bordeaux to Airport Private Transfer in Premium Class: $147
  • Arrival Private Transfer Bordeaux Airport BOD to Bordeaux by Van: $115
  • Bordeaux Airport Transfers: Bordeaux to Bordeaux Airport BOD in Luxury Van: $108
  • Departure Private Transfers : Bordeaux to Bordeaux Airport BOD in Luxury Van: $108
  • Bordeaux Airport Transfers: Bordeaux Airport BOD to Bordeaux in Business Car: $102
  • Arrival Private Transfers : Bordeaux Airport BOD to Bordeaux in Business Car: $102
  • Private Transfer Bordeaux City to Bordeaux Airport BOD by Car: $97
  • Private Transfer from Bordeaux Airport to City of Bordeaux: $87
  • Transfer Airport, Hotel, Station and others places: $77

Is it cheaper to fly into Bordeaux or Auxerre?

Prices for flights to both Auxerre and Bordeaux 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
    Bordeaux 45
    Auxerre 34

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bordeaux

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

  • Bordeaux - sweet food tour of the old city: $63
  • No Diet Club : Bordeaux Food Tour in Les Chartrons !: $63
  • NO DIET CLUB - Unique food tour in Bordeaux !: $64
  • 2-Hour River Dinner Cruise: $74
  • Bordeaux : Afternoon Food Tour by a local guide: $84
  • Bakeries, Chocolate and Patisseries Food Tour: $85
  • Bordeaux : Food Tour by a local guide: $95
  • Private Bakery, Chocolate & Patisserie Food Tour: $95
  • Food Tour in Bordeaux : $97
  • Bordeaux Food Tour - Bakeries, Pastries, Chocolate and more!: $98
  • Bordeaux Ultimate Food Tour: $105
  • Pastry Cooking Class: $105

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bordeaux 7.89
    Auxerre 18

Tours and Activities in Bordeaux

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

  • "Bordeaux by bicycle: a 3-hour tour immersive experience": $39
  • "Explore Saint-Émilion on e-Bikes: Small Group, Full-Day Tour": $196
  • 2 hours - Bordeaux Private tour with a native guide: $163
  • 4 Hours Gastronomic Tour in Bordeaux the Sandwiches of the World: $64
  • Afternoon Gastronomic Tour in Bordeaux: $86
  • Aperitive guided cruise « Wine and Canelé »: $20
  • Blending workshop and tour of the chateau: $42
  • Blind Tasting: 5 Bordeaux Natural Wine + Cheese experience: $53
  • Bordeaux - Private Historic Walking Tour: $457
  • Bordeaux : Discovery Stroll and Reading Walking Tour: $2.12
  • Bordeaux : Must-See Attractions Walking Tour: $75
  • Bordeaux : Must-sees's Private Guided Walking Tour: $27

Tours and Activities in Auxerre

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

  • Chocolate Tour with Tasting: $16
  • e-Mehari Tour et dégustation Chablis Clotilde Davenne: $91
  • Touristic highlights of Auxerre a Private half day tour (4 Hours) with a local: $112

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bordeaux 26
    Auxerre 6.14

Sample the Local Flavors in Bordeaux

Also in Bordeaux, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Wine and Trade Museum Entry Ticket & Wine Tasting: $11
  • Distillery Tour in Bordeaux with Spirits Tasting: $16
  • Wine Tasting Cruise: $22
  • Cité du Vin Direct Ticket and Wine Tasting: $23
  • Bordeaux Pub Crawl: $25
  • Taillan-Médoc: Château Visit and Wine Tasting in Bordeaux: $27
  • Wine Tour and Tasting: $29
  • Unusual Wine Tasting Experience - Wood & Wine: $30
  • An Unusual Wine Tasting Hour in Bordeaux: $30
  • Discover Bordeaux vineyard : special wine tasting with two cellar men brothers: $32
  • Wine Country Vineyards Tour w/ Local Wine Tastings: $59
  • Bordeaux Vineyards Wine Tasting Half-Day Trip: $61

Sample the Local Flavors in Auxerre

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

  • From Dutch Barge Full-Day Cruise with Wine Tasting: $83
  • Chablis & Northern Burgundy Wine Tour: $271


When comparing the travel costs between Bordeaux and Auxerre, we can see that Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux Expensive? and Is Auxerre Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Bordeaux or Auxerre?

Bordeaux has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Auxerre. When comparing the sizes of Bordeaux and Auxerre, 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 Bordeaux or Auxerre?

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 Bordeaux or Auxerre in the Summer?

Both Auxerre and Bordeaux during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bordeaux this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Auxerre for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Bordeaux is around the same temperature as Auxerre. Typically, the summer temperatures in Bordeaux in July average around 21°C (69°F), and Auxerre averages at about 19°C (66°F).

In Auxerre, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Bordeaux. In the summer, Bordeaux often gets more sunshine than Auxerre. Bordeaux gets 276 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Auxerre receives 255 hours of full sun.

Bordeaux usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Auxerre. Bordeaux gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Auxerre receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bordeaux 21°C (69°F) 
    Auxerre 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Bordeaux or Auxerre in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Bordeaux and Auxerre. Many travelers come to Bordeaux for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Auxerre in the autumn for the small town atmosphere.

In October, Bordeaux is generally around the same temperature as Auxerre. Daily temperatures in Bordeaux average around 14°C (58°F), and Auxerre fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Bordeaux usually receives more sunshine than Auxerre during autumn. Bordeaux gets 165 hours of sunny skies, while Auxerre receives 126 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bordeaux usually receives more rain than Auxerre. Bordeaux gets 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Auxerre receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bordeaux 14°C (58°F) 
    Auxerre 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Bordeaux or Auxerre in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Bordeaux as well as Auxerre. Many visitors come to Bordeaux in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Auxerre for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

Auxerre can be very cold during winter. Bordeaux is much warmer than Auxerre in the winter. The daily temperature in Bordeaux averages around 6°C (43°F) in January, and Auxerre fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Bordeaux often gets more sunshine than Auxerre. Bordeaux gets 86 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Auxerre receives 53 hours of full sun.

Bordeaux receives a lot of rain in the winter. Bordeaux usually gets more rain in January than Auxerre. Bordeaux gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Auxerre receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bordeaux 6°C (43°F) 
    Auxerre 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Bordeaux or Auxerre in the Spring?

Both Auxerre and Bordeaux are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Bordeaux for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Auxerre because of the small town charm.

In the spring, Bordeaux is a little warmer than Auxerre. Typically, the spring temperatures in Bordeaux in April average around 12°C (53°F), and Auxerre averages at about 10°C (50°F).

Bordeaux usually receives more sunshine than Auxerre during spring. Bordeaux gets 190 hours of sunny skies, while Auxerre receives 167 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bordeaux usually receives more rain than Auxerre. Bordeaux gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Auxerre receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bordeaux 12°C (53°F) 
    Auxerre 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Auxerre and Bordeaux

Bordeaux Auxerre
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (43°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 3°C (37°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 7°C (45°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 5°C (41°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 9°C (48°F) 76 mm (3 in) 7°C (45°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 12°C (53°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 10°C (50°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 15°C (59°F) 77 mm (3 in) 15°C (59°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Jun 18°C (65°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 18°C (64°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Jul 21°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 19°C (66°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Aug 20°C (68°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 19°C (66°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 18°C (65°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 17°C (63°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Oct 14°C (58°F) 88 mm (3.5 in) 13°C (55°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Nov 9°C (49°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 7°C (45°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Dec 7°C (44°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 5°C (41°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)


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