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

Should you visit Bordeaux or Imperia?

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

Should I visit Bordeaux or Imperia? 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 elegant, charming, and romantic 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. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Imperia

Imperia is a charming, undiscovered, and authentic town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bordeaux and Imperia: Pros and Cons

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
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food


Is there more to do in Bordeaux or Imperia?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bordeaux. Although Bordeaux and Imperia are both popular with visitors, Bordeaux has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Bordeaux is more touristy than Imperia and is known for its world-renowned wine and the many nearby vineyards. It is also home to Cathédrale Saint-André. Imperia is popular for its access to the Ligurian coastline.

How is Bordeaux different from Imperia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Bordeaux
Imperia

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

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 Imperia. There are several interesting buildings of importance around town.


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

Bordeaux
Imperia

Bordeaux is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Imperia. Food ranges from typical Italian dishes to local recipes that use local ingredients. Unique ingredients in the area include trumpet zucchini, flat breads, and anchovies.

Is Bordeaux or Imperia Better for Nightlife?

Bordeaux
Imperia

It's hard to distinguish whether Bordeaux or Imperia 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 Imperia has a few options to choose from. There are some bars and lively restaurants around town where you can spend an enjoyable evening.

Is Bordeaux or Imperia Better for its Old Town?

Bordeaux
Imperia

Bordeaux is a popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Imperia 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.

Imperia does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Bordeaux or Imperia?

Bordeaux
Imperia

Bordeaux is notable for its shopping areas. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Imperia. There are some shopping streets in town that have a mix of local brands and standard clothing shops.

Is Bordeaux or Imperia Better for Families?

Bordeaux
Imperia

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Bordeaux or Imperia.

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.

Imperia offers lots of family activities. There's some nice walking trails in the countryside that the kids will enjoy.

Is Bordeaux or Imperia Better for Couples?

Bordeaux
Imperia

Bordeaux is notable for couples. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

Bordeaux is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Imperia is a nice destination for couples. It's a beautiful town with a nice atmosphere that offers a nice break from the tourist crowds.


Is Bordeaux or Imperia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bordeaux
Imperia

Bordeaux and Imperia are good 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.

Imperia is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Accommodation tends to be affordable and there's an off-the-beaten-path vibe that some backpackers will appreciate.

Is Bordeaux or Imperia Better for Students?

Bordeaux
Imperia

Bordeaux is notable for students. However, Imperia 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.

Imperia is not popular with students.

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

Bordeaux
Imperia

Bordeaux is notable for its public transit. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Imperia has some public transit options. There are buses that connect the city to different areas.


Is Bordeaux or Imperia a more walkable city?

Bordeaux
Imperia

Bordeaux is notable for its ease of walking around. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

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

Imperia is somewhat walkable. Parts of the town are convenient to walk around.

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

Should I spend more time in Imperia or Bordeaux?

How long in Bordeaux or Imperia?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Bordeaux or Imperia to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Bordeaux than Imperia 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 Imperia.

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

One day in Bordeaux or Imperia?

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 Imperia 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 Imperia?

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.

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


Five days in Bordeaux or Imperia?

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.

Imperia 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 Imperia?

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.

Imperia 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 Walking Tours in Italy, and The Best Luxury Tours to Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Imperia 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 Imperia is €108. 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 Imperia in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Bordeaux or Imperia? 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 Imperia


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 Imperia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bordeaux 15
    Imperia 36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bordeaux

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bordeaux:

  • Private Transfer from Bordeaux Airport to City of Bordeaux: $87
  • Transfer Airport, Hotel, Station and others places: $96
  • Private Transfer Bordeaux City to Bordeaux Airport BOD by Car: $97
  • Bordeaux Airport Transfers: Bordeaux Airport BOD to Bordeaux in Business Car: $103
  • Arrival Private Transfers : Bordeaux Airport BOD to Bordeaux in Business Car: $103
  • Bordeaux to Airport Private Transfer in Business Sedan: $108
  • Bordeaux Airport Transfers: Bordeaux to Bordeaux Airport BOD in Luxury Van: $108
  • Departure Private Transfers : Bordeaux to Bordeaux Airport BOD in Luxury Van: $108
  • Arrival Private Transfer Bordeaux Airport BOD to Bordeaux by Van: $115
  • Bordeaux to Airport Private Transfer in Premium Class: $147
  • Private Transfer from Airport to Bordeaux City: $165
  • Airport to Lège-Cap-Ferret Transfer in Business Sedan: $273

Is it cheaper to fly into Bordeaux or Imperia?

Prices for flights to both Imperia 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
    Imperia 35

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bordeaux

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

  • No Diet Club : Bordeaux Food Tour in Les Chartrons !: $63
  • Bordeaux - sweet food tour of the old city: $63
  • NO DIET CLUB - Unique food tour in Bordeaux !: $64
  • 2-Hour River Dinner Cruise: $74
  • Sweet Specialties Tasting Bakeries Food Tour: $82
  • Bordeaux : Afternoon Food Tour by a local guide: $84
  • Bordeaux Organic Food Tour - French Apéro Style: $93
  • Bordeaux : unforgettable 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 Traditional Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $103

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bordeaux 7.89
    Imperia 13

Tours and Activities in Bordeaux

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

  • Bordeaux : Discovery Stroll and Reading Walking Tour: $2.13
  • Free Walking City Tour: $2.14
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Bordeaux Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.55
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.95
  • City Highlights & Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt Tour: $6.95
  • City Highlights Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • The best of Find more than wine on this self-guided audio tour: $6.99
  • Centre of Explore 2,000 years of history on a self-guided audio tour: $8.99
  • Bordeaux Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Guided Walking Tour: $16

Tours and Activities in Imperia

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Imperia are as follows:

  • Imperia - Old Town Private Historic Walking Tour: $428

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bordeaux 26
    Imperia 7.50

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
  • Bordeaux Wine and Trade Museum Admission Ticket with Wine Tasting: $11
  • Distillery Tour in Bordeaux with Spirits Tasting: $16
  • Wine Tasting Cruise: $22
  • Cité du Vin Direct Ticket and Wine Tasting: $24
  • 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
  • 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: $62


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


Which is Bigger, Bordeaux or Imperia?

Bordeaux has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Imperia. When comparing the sizes of Bordeaux and Imperia, 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 Imperia?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Bordeaux or Imperia in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Bordeaux and Imperia. The summer months attract visitors to Bordeaux because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Imperia this time of year.

In the summer, Bordeaux is cooler than Imperia. Typically, the summer temperatures in Bordeaux in July average around 21°C (69°F), and Imperia averages at about 25°C (76°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Imperia this time of the year. In Bordeaux, it's very sunny this time of the year. Bordeaux usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Imperia during summer. Bordeaux gets 276 hours of sunny skies, while Imperia receives 295 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Bordeaux usually receives more rain than Imperia. Bordeaux gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bordeaux 21°C (69°F) 
    Imperia 25°C (76°F)

Should I visit Bordeaux or Imperia in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Bordeaux as well as Imperia. 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. Additionally, many travelers come to Imperia for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Bordeaux is generally cooler than Imperia. Daily temperatures in Bordeaux average around 14°C (58°F), and Imperia fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In the autumn, Bordeaux often gets less sunshine than Imperia. Bordeaux gets 165 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Imperia receives 183 hours of full sun.

Bordeaux usually gets less rain in October than Imperia. Bordeaux gets 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bordeaux 14°C (58°F) 
    Imperia 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Bordeaux or Imperia in the Winter?

Both Imperia and Bordeaux are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Bordeaux for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Imperia in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Bordeaux is much colder than Imperia in the winter. The daily temperature in Bordeaux averages around 6°C (43°F) in January, and Imperia fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Bordeaux usually receives less sunshine than Imperia during winter. Bordeaux gets 86 hours of sunny skies, while Imperia receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Bordeaux. In January, Bordeaux usually receives more rain than Imperia. Bordeaux gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bordeaux 6°C (43°F) 
    Imperia 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Bordeaux or Imperia in the Spring?

Both Imperia and Bordeaux during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Bordeaux in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Imperia for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Bordeaux is cooler than Imperia. Typically, the spring temperatures in Bordeaux in April average around 12°C (53°F), and Imperia averages at about 15°C (58°F).

In the spring, Bordeaux often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Imperia. Bordeaux gets 190 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Imperia receives 198 hours of full sun.

Bordeaux usually gets more rain in April than Imperia. Bordeaux gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bordeaux 12°C (53°F) 
    Imperia 15°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Imperia and Bordeaux

Bordeaux Imperia
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (43°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Feb 7°C (45°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 11°C (51°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Mar 9°C (48°F) 76 mm (3 in) 12°C (54°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 12°C (53°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 15°C (58°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 15°C (59°F) 77 mm (3 in) 18°C (64°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 18°C (65°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 21°C (71°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Jul 21°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 25°C (76°F) 12 mm (0.5 in)
Aug 20°C (68°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 25°C (77°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Sep 18°C (65°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 22°C (72°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 14°C (58°F) 88 mm (3.5 in) 19°C (66°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Nov 9°C (49°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 14°C (58°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 7°C (44°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 12°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)


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