Which place is cheaper, Calgary or Bordeaux?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
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Should you visit Bordeaux or Calgary?
Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?
Should I visit Bordeaux or Calgary? 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. 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. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.
Calgary
Calgary is a local, authentic, and western city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.
Bordeaux and Calgary: Pros and Cons
Bordeaux
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Popular for food and cuisine
- Active nightlife
- Scenic old town
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Good for students
- Very walkable
- Impressive beauty
Calgary
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Active nightlife
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Less popular for food
- Less walkable
Is there more to do in Bordeaux or Calgary?
Visitors will generally find more to do in Bordeaux than Calgary. While Calgary is larger than Bordeaux, Bordeaux has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Bordeaux is more touristy than Calgary and is known for its world-renowned wine and the many nearby vineyards. Also, Bordeaux is famous for Cathédrale Saint-André. Calgary is well known for its farming and oil industries as well as the Calgary Stampede.
How is Bordeaux different from Calgary?
Which is Better for a Holiday?
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Calgary 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 Calgary?
Bordeaux
Calgary
Plenty of people visit the notable sights and museums in both Bordeaux and Calgary.
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 Calgary. It's worth visiting the Calgary Zoo, Fort Calgary, the Hangar Flight Museum, and Heritage Park, among others.
Is the Food Better in Bordeaux or Calgary? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?
Bordeaux
Calgary
Bordeaux is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. However, Calgary is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.
Many restaurants in Bordeaux have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.
Calgary may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The food scene is constantly evolving and you'll find plenty of casual restaurants. The city is known for its beef, so you should definitely sample a local steak.
Is Bordeaux or Calgary Better for Nightlife?
Bordeaux
Calgary
It's hard to distinguish whether Bordeaux or Calgary 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 Calgary has a few options to choose from. Visitors often head to Stephen Avenue Walk for its bars and pubs. There's also a decent theater scene around town.
Is Bordeaux or Calgary Better for its Old Town?
Bordeaux
Calgary
Bordeaux is a city with good options for its old town. However, Calgary does not have a historic old town.
Many people head to Bordeaux to see the old town. The old town is between Cours de l'Intendance and rue Peyronnet. The area has many distinct neighborhoods, monuments, and historical buildings.
Calgary does not have a historic old town.
Is the Shopping Better in Bordeaux or Calgary?
Bordeaux
Calgary
Bordeaux is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Calgary is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.
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.
Calgary has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are plenty of independent shops around town as well as some great shopping neighborhoods. Make sure you check out Fourth Street and 17th Avenue. There are also large shopping malls.
Is Bordeaux or Calgary Better for Families?
Bordeaux
Calgary
Kids will enjoy a visit to either Bordeaux or Calgary.
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.
Calgary offers lots of family activities. There are a surprising number of things around town to do with kids such as petting zoos, museums, and even amusement parks. The Calgary Zoo is worth a visit, but also make sure you check out Calaway Park Amusement Park and the Telus Spark science center.
Is Bordeaux or Calgary Better for Couples?
Bordeaux
Calgary
Bordeaux is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Calgary is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.
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.
Calgary is a good city for couples to visit. You'll find outdoor sports, boat tours, and plenty of great restaurants around town. If you're looking for a low key destination with a great vibe, then this is a great city for a weekend trip.
Is Bordeaux or Calgary Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?
Bordeaux
Calgary
Bordeaux and Calgary are notable places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.
Plenty of budget travelers visit Bordeaux. There are a handful of hostels and a diversity of activities that backpackers can enjoy.
Calgary is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. A surprising number of backpackers end up passing through town, so you'll find a handful of hostels to choose from.
Is Bordeaux or Calgary Better for Students?
Bordeaux
Calgary
Bordeaux is well known for students. However, Calgary is not popular with students.
Students come from all over to stay in Bordeaux. 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.
Calgary is not popular with students.
Is Bordeaux or Calgary Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?
Bordeaux
Calgary
Bordeaux is well known for its public transit. Also, Calgary is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.
Public transit in Bordeaux can get you to some places easily. There are buses, trams and a ferry that runs along the river.
While Calgary offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The public transportation system is relatively efficient with both light rail and buses.
Is Bordeaux or Calgary a more walkable city?
Bordeaux
Calgary
Bordeaux is well known for its high level of walkability. However, Calgary is not particularly known for its ease of walking around.
Bordeaux is a very walkable city. The city has many pedestrian areas and large squares to explore.
Calgary is generally not a very walkable city. While there are a couple of walkable neighborhood's around town, it's definitely not the most walkable city.
For even more information, also check out Is Bordeaux Worth Visiting? and Is Calgary Worth Visiting?.
Should I spend more time in Calgary or Bordeaux?
How long in Bordeaux or Calgary?
You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Bordeaux or Calgary to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Bordeaux than Calgary 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 Calgary.
Families should spend more time in Bordeaux than Calgary. 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 Calgary. 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 Calgary 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.
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How many days in Bordeaux or Calgary? Ideal Length of StayBordeaux 2-5Calgary 1-2
One day in Bordeaux or Calgary?
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 city of Calgary offers nightlife 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 Calgary?
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.
Calgary 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 Calgary, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.
Five days in Bordeaux or Calgary?
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.
Calgary 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 Calgary?
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.
Calgary 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 3-Day Tours from Vancouver, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Vancouver.
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Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayBordeaux €123Calgary €141
The average daily cost (per person) in Bordeaux is €123, while the average daily cost in Calgary is €141. 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 Calgary in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personBordeaux €63Calgary €67
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomBordeaux €126Calgary €134
Compare Hotels in Bordeaux and Calgary
Looking for a hotel in Bordeaux or Calgary? 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.
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 Calgary Hotel Prices.
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Bordeaux €15Calgary €11
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bordeaux
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bordeaux:
- Airport Transfer: Bordeaux Airport BOD to Bordeaux by Luxury Van: $112
- Airport to Bordeaux Premium Class Private Transfer: $282
- Airport to Bordeaux Private Transfer in Business Sedan: $141
- Airport to Lège-Cap-Ferret Transfer in Business Sedan: $282
- Arrival Private Transfer Bordeaux Airport BOD to Bordeaux by Van: $76
- Arrival Private Transfers : Bordeaux Airport BOD to Bordeaux in Business Car: $106
- Bordeaux Airport Transfers: Bordeaux Airport BOD to Bordeaux in Business Car: $106
- Bordeaux Airport Transfers: Bordeaux to Bordeaux Airport BOD in Luxury Van: $112
- Bordeaux to Airport Private Transfer in Business Sedan: $112
- Bordeaux to Airport Private Transfer in Premium Class: $153
- Private Transfer Service: $111
- Departure Private Transfers : Bordeaux to Bordeaux Airport BOD in Luxury Van: $112
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Calgary
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Calgary:
- Alberta Transfer: Banff, Jasper, Lake Louise, Calgary: $68
- Arrival Private Transfer: Calgary Airport YYC to Calgary in Business Car: $112
- Arrival Private Transfer: Calgary Airport YYC to Calgary in Luxury SUV: $133
- Arrival Private Transfer: Calgary Airport YYC to Calgary in Luxury Van: $133
- Banff To Calgary Airport - Private Transfer: $367
- Banff to Calgary Airport | Private Transfer: $293
- Calgary Airport (YYC) to Banff Thermal Round-Trip Transfer: $287
- Calgary Airport (YYC) to Calgary hotel or address - Arrival Private Transfer: $119
- Calgary Airport (YYC) to Calgary hotel or address - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $237
- Calgary Airport (YYC) to Lake Louise - Arrival Private Transfer: $119
- Calgary Airport (YYC) to Lake Louise | Private Transfer: $299
- Calgary Airport to Banff | Private Transfer: $220
Is it cheaper to fly into Bordeaux or Calgary?
Prices for flights to both Calgary 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
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Food Meals for one dayBordeaux €45Calgary €28
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bordeaux
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Bordeaux.
- Bordeaux Food Tour - Bakeries and Pastries: $49
- Bordeaux Food Tour - Bakeries, Chocolate and Pastries: $50
- Organic : Bordeaux Food Tour: $59
- Bordeaux - sweet food tour of the old city: $61
- No Diet Club : Bordeaux Food Tour in Les Chartrons !: $65
- NO DIET CLUB - Unique food tour in Bordeaux !: $67
- Bordeaux : Most Complete Morning Food Tour: $72
- 2-Hour River Dinner Cruise: $76
- Bordeaux Traditional Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $95
- 4h Night Food Tour of Bordeaux: $96
- Bordeaux Traditional Gourmet Walking Food Tour: $107
- Food Tour in the Historic District: $110
Typical Food Prices in Calgary
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Calgary:
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Bread, Chips, Cheese€7.41
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Calgary
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Calgary.
- Light Brunch & Food Tour at Calgary Farmers' Market WEST: $82
- Iconic Eats of Calgary Food Tour: $130
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Bordeaux €22Calgary €14
Tours and Activities in Bordeaux
Here are a few actual costs in Bordeaux for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:
- Free Walking City Tour (English): $2.22
- First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.32
- Secrets of Bordeaux Self Guided Tour: $3.38
- Highlights App Guided Tour with Puzzles: $6.63
- Bordeaux Old Town: Port of the Moon Quest Experience: $7.33
- Self-Guided City Tour with Quizzes on your Phone: $8.85
- Bordeaux Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
- Guided Walking Tour: $12
- Guided Walking Tour: $16
- Guided River Cruise: $17
- Street Art Guided Tour: $17
- Mystery and Myths Walking Tour: $17
Typical Entertainment Prices in Calgary
Here are a few typical costs in Calgary for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:
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Stampede Admission (for 2)€20
Tours and Activities in Calgary
Here are a few actual costs in Calgary for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:
- Bow River Trail Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $5.14
- Downtown Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $5.14
- Calgary's Beltline District: a Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $6.02
- Downtown Calgary a Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $6.02
- Tips-Based City Highlights Walking Tour | 3-Hour: $6.62
- Explore the Stampede City with Walking Tours in Calgary: $6.77
- Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
- Rocky Mountains: Smartphone Driving and Walking Audio Tours: $15
- Banff Audio Guided Tour from Calgary: $16
- Calgary Flames Ice Hockey Game Ticket: $19
- Calgary Flames Ice Hockey Game Ticket at Scotiabank Saddledome: $20
- Drive Calgary to Banff: Ultimate Scenic Self-Guided Tour: $20
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayBordeaux €26Calgary €10
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
- Château Olivier one hour Vineyard Tour with Wine Tasting: $17
- Distillery Tour in Bordeaux with Spirits Tasting: $17
- Wine Tasting Cruise: $23
- Cité du Vin Direct Ticket and Wine Tasting: $24
- Taillan-Médoc: Château Visit and Wine Tasting in Bordeaux: $28
- Wine Tour and Tasting: $31
- Unusual Wine Tasting Experience - Wood & Wine: $31
- Discover Bordeaux vineyard : special wine tasting with two cellar men brothers: $33
- Guided Bordeaux Wine Tasting Class with 6 Wines: $50
- Bordeaux Cheese and Wine Tasting: $54
- Wine Tasting with a Certified Sommelier: $55
Sample the Local Flavors in Calgary
Also in Calgary, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:
- Calgary Bar Crawl: Cruisin' Calgary: $12
- Calgary Brewery and Wine Tours at Award Winning Venues: $84
- Calgary Brewery Tour: $90
When comparing the travel costs between Bordeaux and Calgary, we can see that Calgary 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. Even though Bordeaux is in Europe and Calgary is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Bordeaux Expensive? and Is Calgary Expensive?.
Which is Bigger, Bordeaux or Calgary?
Calgary has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Bordeaux. When comparing the sizes of Bordeaux and Calgary, 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.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.