A Travel Price Comparison for France Bordeaux vs. Biarritz for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Bordeaux or Biarritz?

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

Should I visit Bordeaux or Biarritz? 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 charming, romantic, and historical city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around 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

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. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Bordeaux and Biarritz: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bordeaux or Biarritz?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Bordeaux than Biarritz, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Bordeaux is better known for its museums, food, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Biarritz is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, and small town charm. Bordeaux is more touristy than Biarritz and is popular for its world-renowned wine and the many nearby vineyards. Also, Bordeaux is famous for Cathédrale Saint-André. Biarritz is well known for its surfing culture, long beaches, and seaside atmosphere.

How is Bordeaux different from Biarritz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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.

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 Bordeaux or Biarritz? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

For foodies, Bordeaux is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Dining out in Biarritz is an experience not to be missed. The food is a delicious mix of French, Spanish, and Basque flavors. Seafood is an obvious influence, but you'll also find meat and bread in many dishes. Local specialties include the oysters, pintxos (a snack of bread topped with ham, cheese, or vegetables), and marmitako (tuna stew).

Is Bordeaux or Biarritz Better for Nightlife?

Biarritz is a great destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

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.

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.

Is Bordeaux or Biarritz Better for Resorts?

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

Bordeaux is not a resort destination.

Is Bordeaux or Biarritz Better for Beaches?

Biarritz is a great destination for the beache. However, Bordeaux is not a beach destination.

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.

Bordeaux is not a beach destination.

Is Bordeaux or Biarritz Better for its Old Town?

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

Biarritz does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Bordeaux or Biarritz?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Biarritz and Bordeaux.

Bordeaux is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

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.

Is Bordeaux or Biarritz Better for Families?

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

Biarritz is a very kid-friendly seaside town. 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.

Bordeaux offers lots of family activities. 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.

Is Bordeaux or Biarritz Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Bordeaux and Biarritz make for a high quality place to visit.

Couples visit Bordeaux frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Biarritz is a great city if you're traveling as 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.

Is Bordeaux or Biarritz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Biarritz is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Biarritz is a great seaside town to visit for backpackers. The town attracts surfers and there are plenty of hostels and other accommodation options for budget travelers or backpackers.

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

Is Bordeaux or Biarritz Better for Students?

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

Bordeaux is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Biarritz is not popular with students.

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

Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux can get you to some places easily. There are buses, trams and a ferry that runs along the river.

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 Bordeaux or Biarritz a more walkable city?

Bordeaux and Biarritz both are high quality when exploring on foot.

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

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

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

Should I spend more time in Biarritz or Bordeaux?

How long in Bordeaux or Biarritz?

Both Bordeaux and Biarritz have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Biarritz than in Bordeaux. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Bordeaux, and 3-7 days is enough time in Biarritz.

Families should spend more time in Biarritz than Bordeaux. 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 Bordeaux than Biarritz. 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 Biarritz than Bordeaux 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.

One day in Bordeaux or Biarritz?

The beautiful city of Bordeaux offers food and shopping. 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 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.

A weekend in Bordeaux or Biarritz?

Bordeaux 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bordeaux, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

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.

Five days in Bordeaux or Biarritz?

Bordeaux is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bordeaux, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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.

A week in Bordeaux or Biarritz?

Bordeaux is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. 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.

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.

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.

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

Which is Bigger, Bordeaux or Biarritz?

Bordeaux has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Biarritz. When comparing the sizes of Bordeaux and Biarritz, 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 Biarritz?

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 Biarritz in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bordeaux as well as Biarritz. The summer months attract visitors to Bordeaux because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Biarritz this time of year.

Bordeaux is around the same temperature as Biarritz in the summer. The daily temperature in Bordeaux averages around 21°C (69°F) in July, and Biarritz fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Biarritz. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bordeaux this time of the year. In the summer, Bordeaux often gets more sunshine than Biarritz. Bordeaux gets 276 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Biarritz receives 209 hours of full sun.

Bordeaux usually gets less rain in July than Biarritz. Bordeaux gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bordeaux or Biarritz in the Autumn?

Both Biarritz and Bordeaux are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Bordeaux this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Biarritz for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

In the autumn, Bordeaux is around the same temperature as Biarritz. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bordeaux in October average around 14°C (58°F), and Biarritz averages at about 16°C (60°F).

Bordeaux usually receives more sunshine than Biarritz during autumn. Bordeaux gets 165 hours of sunny skies, while Biarritz receives 144 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Biarritz. In October, Bordeaux usually receives less rain than Biarritz. Bordeaux gets 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Bordeaux or Biarritz in the Winter?

Both Biarritz and Bordeaux during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Bordeaux for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Biarritz in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Bordeaux is generally cooler than Biarritz. Daily temperatures in Bordeaux average around 6°C (43°F), and Biarritz fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Bordeaux often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Biarritz. Bordeaux gets 86 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Biarritz receives 85 hours of full sun.

Biarritz gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Bordeaux. Bordeaux usually gets less rain in January than Biarritz. Bordeaux gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bordeaux or Biarritz in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bordeaux and Biarritz. Many visitors come to Bordeaux in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Biarritz for the beaches and the small town charm during these months.

Bordeaux is around the same temperature as Biarritz in the spring. The daily temperature in Bordeaux averages around 12°C (53°F) in April, and Biarritz fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Bordeaux usually receives more sunshine than Biarritz during spring. Bordeaux gets 190 hours of sunny skies, while Biarritz receives 141 hours of full sun in the spring.

Biarritz receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Bordeaux usually receives less rain than Biarritz. Bordeaux gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Biarritz and Bordeaux