A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bordeaux vs. Brasilia for Food, Couples, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Bordeaux or Brasilia?

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

Should I visit Bordeaux or Brasilia? 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 romantic, historical, and elegant city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, Bordeaux attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Bordeaux travel costs.

Brasilia

Brasilia is a lively, vibrant, and cultural city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Brasilia travel costs.

Bordeaux and Brasilia: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Bordeaux or Brasilia?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Bordeaux than Brasilia. While Brasilia is larger than Bordeaux, Bordeaux has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Bordeaux is more touristy than Brasilia and is known for its world-renowned wine and the many nearby vineyards. It is also home to Cathédrale Saint-André. Brasilia is popular for its modernist architecture, abundant green space, and planned layout.

How is Bordeaux different from Brasilia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Bordeaux
Brasilia

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

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 Brasilia. There are a variety of museums that highlight the city's rich history, modernist architecture, and diverse culture. Notable museums include the Museu Nacional, showcasing contemporary art, and the Museu de Arte de Brasília (MAB), which focuses on Brazilian art. The Memorial dos Povos Indígenas offers insight into indigenous cultures, while the Museu do Catetinho takes visitors through the early days of the city’s creation.


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

Bordeaux
Brasilia

Bordeaux is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Brasilia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Brasilia. The city's food scene is diverse, offering a mix of traditional Brazilian dishes and international cuisine. Since it is home to people from all over Brazil, you can find food from many different regions in one place. Popular dishes include Picanha (Brazilian steak), Feijoada (black bean and pork stew), and Tucunaré na Brasa (grilled fish).

Is Bordeaux or Brasilia Better for Nightlife?

Bordeaux
Brasilia

It's hard to distinguish whether Bordeaux or Brasilia has a better nightlife scene.

Bordeaux has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city comes to life at night with dance clubs, wine bars, student pubs, and more.

If you're looking for night time activities Brasilia has a few options to choose from. The nightlife scene is more sophisticated and calm compared to other Brazilian capitals. It's not a party city by traditional standards, but it's ideal for those looking to enjoy good food, drinks, and live music in a more relaxed atmosphere. If you're looking for high-energy nightlife, the city might feel quieter, but it's still plenty of fun.

Is Bordeaux or Brasilia Better for its Old Town?

Bordeaux
Brasilia

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

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

Brasilia does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Bordeaux or Brasilia?

Bordeaux
Brasilia

Shopping is a popular activity in both Brasilia 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 Brasilia. There is a mix of modern malls, local markets, and high-end boutiques. The city is home to several large shopping centers, such as Shopping Iguatemi, ParkShopping, and Conjunto Nacional, which feature a variety of international brands, local shops, and food courts. For more traditional items, the Feira da Torre is a popular open-air market where you can find local crafts, souvenirs, and handmade goods.

Is Bordeaux or Brasilia More Beautiful?

Bordeaux
Brasilia

Bordeaux is well known for its scenery and beauty. However, Brasilia is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Bordeaux attracts visitors from all around. The city is filled with beautiful architecture, parks, and gardens.

Brasilia is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Bordeaux or Brasilia Better for Families?

Bordeaux
Brasilia

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Bordeaux or Brasilia.

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.

Brasilia offers lots of family activities. While it doesn't have as many theme parks as some of the other large cities in Brazil, there are a number of activities that families can enjoy. There's the Parque da Cidade, where children can ride bikes and play on playgrounds. There's also Nicolândia, a small amusement park with exciting rides. At the Brasília Zoo, kids can see native animals like jaguars, toucans, and capybaras while learning about Brazil's wildlife. The Planetarium of Brasília is a great spot for young space enthusiasts, featuring interactive exhibits and fascinating star shows.


Is Bordeaux or Brasilia Better for Couples?

Bordeaux
Brasilia

Bordeaux is well known for couples. Also, Brasilia is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

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.

Brasilia is a nice destination for couples. There are sunset boat rides on Paranoá Lake. If you enjoy culture, you can visit the National Museum or admire the stunning architecture of the Cathedral of Brasília. A romantic dinner at a lakeside restaurant in Pontão do Lago Sul is perfect for a night out with delicious food and a relaxing atmosphere. For nature lovers, a peaceful walk or picnic at Jardim Botânico de Brasília provides a lovely escape from the city.

Is Bordeaux or Brasilia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bordeaux
Brasilia

Bordeaux is very good for backpackers. However, Brasilia is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Brasilia is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There's fascinating architecture and great green spaces, but the city has limited nightlife and it isn't the most popular destination for backpackers. There are some budget-friendly hostels and public buses that make it possible to explore without spending too much. Though it lacks a strong backpacker scene, Brasília's mix of culture, green spaces, and history makes it an interesting stop for adventurous travelers.

Is Bordeaux or Brasilia Better for Students?

Bordeaux
Brasilia

Bordeaux is well known for students. However, Brasilia 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.

Brasilia is not popular with students.


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

Bordeaux
Brasilia

Bordeaux is well known for its public transit. Also, Brasilia is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

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

While Brasilia offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The public transit system is relatively limited compared to larger Brazilian cities, but it still offers a few options for getting around. The Metro is an efficient choice for traveling through central areas, with two main lines that connect key neighborhoods like Asa Norte and Plano Piloto. There are also buses that are more comprehensive.

Is Bordeaux or Brasilia a more walkable city?

Bordeaux
Brasilia

Bordeaux is well known for its ease of walking around. However, Brasilia is not particularly known for its walkability.

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

Brasilia is generally not a very walkable city. The city isn't particularly walkable because it is very spread out.

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

Should I spend more time in Brasilia or Bordeaux?

How long in Bordeaux or Brasilia?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Bordeaux and Brasilia. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Bordeaux than in Brasilia. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Bordeaux, and 1-3 days is enough time in Brasilia.

Families should spend more time in Bordeaux than Brasilia. 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 Brasilia. 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 Brasilia 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 Brasilia? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bordeaux 2-5 
    Brasilia 1-3

One day in Bordeaux or Brasilia?

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 city of Brasilia 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 Bordeaux or Brasilia?

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.

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

Five days in Bordeaux or Brasilia?

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.

Brasilia 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 Brasilia?

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.

Brasilia 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 city 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 Eco Tours in Brazil, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Brazil.


Which place is cheaper, Brasilia or Bordeaux?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Bordeaux Prices
    France Prices
    Brasilia Prices
    Brazil Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Bordeaux 156
    Brasilia 84

The average daily cost (per person) in Bordeaux is €156, while the average daily cost in Brasilia is €84. 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 Brasilia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bordeaux 63
    Brasilia 28
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bordeaux 126
    Brasilia 56
Compare Hotels in Bordeaux and Brasilia

Looking for a hotel in Bordeaux or Brasilia? 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 Brasilia


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 Brasilia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bordeaux 15
    Brasilia 17

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bordeaux

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bordeaux:

  • Airport to Bordeaux Private Transfer in Business Sedan: $143
  • Airport to Lège-Cap-Ferret Transfer in Business Sedan: $287
  • Arrival Private Transfer Bordeaux Airport BOD to Bordeaux by Van: $78
  • Bordeaux : Private transfer to/from Mérignac Airport: $101
  • Bordeaux Airport Transfers: Bordeaux to Bordeaux Airport BOD in Business Car: $102
  • Bordeaux Airport Transfers: Bordeaux to Bordeaux Airport BOD in Luxury Car: $143
  • Bordeaux Airport Transfers: Bordeaux to Bordeaux Airport BOD in Luxury Van: $108
  • Bordeaux airport transfer To All hotel & airbnb downtown : $195
  • Bordeaux to Airport Private Transfer in Business Sedan: $114
  • Bordeaux to Airport Private Transfer in Premium Class: $155
  • Bordeaux to Airport Private Transfer in Van Business: $247
  • Private Transfer Service: $113

Is it cheaper to fly into Bordeaux or Brasilia?

Prices for flights to both Brasilia 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 79
    Brasilia 44

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bordeaux

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

  • Bordeaux food tour: sweet specialities & highlights: $25
  • Chocolate & Pastries Food Tour | 6+ Tastings: $36
  • Bordeaux : Afternoon Food Tour with local delicacies: $62
  • Bordeaux - sweet food tour of the old city: $62
  • Bordeaux Best Boulangeries Food Tour - Semi Private - Max 8 Ppl: $63
  • No Diet Club : Bordeaux Food Tour in Les Chartrons !: $70
  • Sweet Morning Food Tour with Wine and Cheese: $73
  • 2-Hour River Dinner Cruise: $78
  • Organic : Bordeaux Food Tour: $112
  • Bordeaux Food Tour – A Full French Meal by Do Eat Better: $120
  • 3.5-Hour Old Town and Market Food Tour: $124
  • Bordeaux Traditional Gourmet Walking Food Tour: $126

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bordeaux 22
    Brasilia 15

Tours and Activities in Bordeaux

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

  • Secrets of Bordeaux Self Guided Tour: $1.12
  • Free Walking of Tour Bordeaux - Pay as you Wish Tour: $1.14
  • Free Walking Bordeaux Tour Tip based English tour: $1.72
  • The Top-Rated Bordeaux Walking Tour - Tips Based: $2.29
  • Bordeaux Guided Walking Tour in English: $3.43
  • Bordeaux Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour: $4.59
  • The Best of Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Bordeaux Old Town Secrets: Self-Guided Walking Adventure: $8.89
  • Bordeaux Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Bordeaux Exploration Game and City Tour on your Phone: $9.16
  • Bordeaux Self Guided Walking Tour with an APP: $9.99
  • Private Grand Crus Walking Experience in Bordeaux : $11

Tours and Activities in Brasilia

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

  • Brasilia : Private Custom Tour with a Local Guide: $62

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bordeaux 26
    Brasilia 11

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: $14
  • Bordeaux Wine and Trade Museum Admission Ticket with Wine Tasting: $14
  • Pub Crawl Drink, Laugh, Meet the World: $15
  • Château Olivier: One Hour Vineyard Tour with Wine Tasting: $21
  • Cité du Vin Entry Ticket and Wine Tasting: $25
  • Taillan-Médoc: Château Visit and Wine Tasting in Bordeaux: $28
  • Pub Crawl Bordeaux : Drink, Laugh, Meet the World: $29
  • Wine Tour and Tasting: $31
  • Unusual wine tasting in DARWIN (Bordeaux)!: $32
  • Discover Bordeaux vineyard : special wine tasting with two cellar men brothers: $33
  • Blind wine tasting - discover wine differently: $40
  • Chateau du Taillan and Park including Wine Tasting Tour: $46


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bordeaux and Brasilia, we can see that Bordeaux is more expensive. And not only is Brasilia much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Bordeaux is in Europe and Brasilia is in South America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Brasilia would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Brasilia and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Bordeaux would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bordeaux than you might in Brasilia.

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


Which is Bigger, Bordeaux or Brasilia?

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

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