A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bordeaux vs. Florence for Attractions, Food, Old Town, and Couples

Should you visit Bordeaux or Florence?

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

Should I visit Bordeaux or Florence? 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. 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 museums, nightlife, and food.

Florence

Florence is a artistic, iconic, and alluring city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bordeaux and Florence: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bordeaux or Florence?

You'll generally find more things to do in Florence than Bordeaux. Florence is bigger than Bordeaux, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Florence is better known for its museums, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Bordeaux is more popular for its big city activities. Bordeaux is well known for its world-renowned wine and the many nearby vineyards. Florence is well known for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. Also, Florence is famous for The Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore).

How is Bordeaux different from Florence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Florence is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Florence are among the most recognizable in the world. Because of it's important role in the Renaissance, the city has many world-renowned museums that you can visit. Famous sights and landmarks include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Academy Gallery.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bordeaux. 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.

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

Foodies will find both Bordeaux and Florence both to be fantastic destinations.

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.

Florence has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Once you've worked up an appetite exploring museums and churches, you'll find many amazing local restaurants around town. Local dishes incorporate a lot of hearty vegetables and meats. Famous dishes include a Florentine steak dish, rabbit, and a bean bed and cabbage soup.

Is Bordeaux or Florence Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Bordeaux or Florence 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 Florence has a few options to choose from. You'll find the most active nightlife in the Santa Croce neighborhood. The area attracts study abroad students as well as tourists who party late into the night.

Is Bordeaux or Florence Better for its Old Town?

Florence is a world-class destination for its old town. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

The historic old town of Florence is revered around the world. The historic center of the city is where you'll find many of the most beautiful buildings, art works, and quaint streets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it was at the heart of the Renaissance period.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Bordeaux or Florence?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Florence 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 Florence. There are many shops in the tourist heart of the city. Most are geared specifically to tourists so you may have to search to find a more authentic shopping experience. Famous items available in the city include gold jewelry, ceramics, leather, and perfume.

Is Bordeaux or Florence Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Bordeaux or Florence.

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.

Florence offers lots of family activities. Most famous for its art and history, the city also has a number of activities that kids will enjoy. There's a carousel and a park that are perfect to let the little ones run around. There are a few kid-friendly museums, as well as a historic city center that will mesmerize the old and young alike.

Is Bordeaux or Florence Better for Couples?

Florence is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Florence makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Art and history lovers will enjoy a visit to this truly beautiful city. Couples who enjoy museums, historic buildings, and world-renowned art, will find plenty to do in this city.

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.

Is Bordeaux or Florence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Florence is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Florence. The city is part of a popular route through Italy, and you'll find many backpackers and students in town. There are also many hostels, so you should have no trouble meeting other young travelers.

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 Florence Better for Students?

Florence is a world-class destination for students. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Many students frequent Florence. Many students visit this city as part of a short term study abroad program, or for the entire length of their studies. The city is beautiful, and whether your focus is art, history, or culture, this city will not disappoint.

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.

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

Bordeaux is a great city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Florence has a few public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system.

Is Bordeaux or Florence a more walkable city?

Florence is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Florence on foot is easy. Most people explore the city on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Florence or Bordeaux?

How long in Bordeaux or Florence?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Florence 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 Florence.

One day in Bordeaux or Florence?

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 beautiful city of Florence offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Florence?

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.

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

Five days in Bordeaux or Florence?

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.

Florence is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Florence, 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 Florence?

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.

Florence is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Florence has to offer. 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 Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bordeaux and Florence, we can see that Florence is more expensive. And not only is Bordeaux much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bordeaux would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bordeaux 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 Florence would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Florence than you might in Bordeaux.

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

Which is Bigger, Bordeaux or Florence?

Florence has a larger population, and is about 24% larger than the population of Bordeaux. When comparing the sizes of Bordeaux and Florence, 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 Florence?

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 Florence in the Summer?

Both Florence and Bordeaux during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Bordeaux for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Florence in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Bordeaux is cooler than Florence in the summer. The daily temperature in Bordeaux averages around 21°C (69°F) in July, and Florence fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

In Florence, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Bordeaux. In the summer, Bordeaux often gets less sunshine than Florence. Bordeaux gets 276 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 316 hours of full sun.

Bordeaux usually gets more rain in July than Florence. Bordeaux gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Florence receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bordeaux or Florence in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Bordeaux and Florence. Many visitors come to Bordeaux in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Florence for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Bordeaux is cooler than Florence. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bordeaux in October average around 14°C (58°F), and Florence averages at about 16°C (61°F).

Bordeaux usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Florence during autumn. Bordeaux gets 165 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bordeaux usually receives less rain than Florence. Bordeaux gets 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Florence receives 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Bordeaux or Florence in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Bordeaux as well as Florence. Most visitors come to Bordeaux for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Florence because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Bordeaux is generally cooler than Florence. Daily temperatures in Bordeaux average around 6°C (43°F), and Florence fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In the winter, Bordeaux often gets less sunshine than Florence. Bordeaux gets 86 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 105 hours of full sun.

Bordeaux receives a lot of rain in the winter. Bordeaux usually gets more rain in January than Florence. Bordeaux gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Florence receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bordeaux or Florence in the Spring?

Both Florence and Bordeaux are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Bordeaux because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Florence this time of year.

Bordeaux is cooler than Florence in the spring. The daily temperature in Bordeaux averages around 12°C (53°F) in April, and Florence fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

Bordeaux usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Florence during spring. Bordeaux gets 190 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 192 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bordeaux usually receives less rain than Florence. Bordeaux gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Florence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Florence and Bordeaux