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

Should you visit Bordeaux or Pamplona?

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

Should I visit Bordeaux or Pamplona? 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. 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 nightlife, food, and shopping.

Pamplona

Pamplona is a historic, elegant, and laid-back city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Bordeaux and Pamplona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bordeaux or Pamplona?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Pamplona than Bordeaux. While Bordeaux is larger than Pamplona, Pamplona has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Pamplona is better known for its nightlife and hiking, while Bordeaux is more popular for its food, shopping, and impressive beauty. Bordeaux is more touristy than Pamplona and is known for its world-renowned wine and the many nearby vineyards. Pamplona is well known for being the home of the Running of the Bulls Festival. Also, Pamplona is famous for The Running of the Bulls Festival.

How is Bordeaux different from Pamplona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the notable sights and museums in both Bordeaux and Pamplona.

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 Pamplona. Although most people visit in July for the Running of the Bulls, throughout the year there are some interesting museums and sights around town. You can check out the Cathedral of Pamplona, the Museo de Navarra, and the main plaza in town, Plaza del Castillo.

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

Bordeaux is terrific for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city 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.

Pamplona has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Local cuisine includes lots of fresh vegetables like mushrooms, artichokes, asparagus, and onion. You'll find many unique dishes in the area, and you shouldn't leave without trying the txistorra (sausage), revuelto de setas (eggs and mushrooms), and ajoarriero (cod).

Is Bordeaux or Pamplona Better for Nightlife?

Pamplona 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 Pamplona know how to have a good time. There's a good sized university population that keeps the nightlife active around town. The Old Quarter is likely where you'll find the most going on, particularly around Calle San Nicolás and Calle Estafeta. Earlier in the evening the crowd is pretty young, but as the evening passes you'll find the crowd matures a bit.

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 Pamplona Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the notable old towns in both Bordeaux and Pamplona.

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.

Pamplona has an old town worth visiting. You'll find elegant buildings and grand plazas around the Old Quarter.

Is Bordeaux or Pamplona Better for Hiking?

Pamplona is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Bordeaux is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Pamplona. It's a stop off on the famed Camino de Santiago, so if you want to walk part of the route, this is a nice place to explore.

Bordeaux is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bordeaux or Pamplona?

Bordeaux is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Pamplona has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find some good markets around town. It's also fun to shop for local handicrafts or souvenirs to remember your trip by.

Is Bordeaux or Pamplona Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Bordeaux or Pamplona.

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.

Pamplona offers lots of family activities. The city is very green, with many parks and gardens where kids can stretch their legs. There's also the Pamplona Planetarium and several museums that relate to environmental education.

Is Bordeaux or Pamplona Better for Couples?

Bordeaux is a well-known place for its romantic activities. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

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.

Pamplona is a good city for couples to visit. Although it's most known for the Running of the Bulls in July, the city also has some interesting sights at other times of the year. Couples can walk around the city walls, or explore the many parks in town. There are also some interesting museums.

Is Bordeaux or Pamplona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Pamplona is a great city to visit for backpackers. Backpackers are drawn to this city during July for the Running of the Bulls festival. It's also a stop along the Camino de Santiago, which brings in a young, budget-oriented crowd.

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 Pamplona Better for Students?

Bordeaux is a well-known place for students. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Plenty of students visit Pamplona. This is a quiet city, which appeals to some students. The laid back atmosphere makes it a nice place to relax and learn.

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

Bordeaux is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Pamplona has some public transit options. There's a comprehensive bus system around town.

Is Bordeaux or Pamplona a more walkable city?

Bordeaux and Pamplona 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.

Pamplona is a very walkable destination. It's a stop off on the Camino de Santiago, so many people arrive on foot. It's also an easy city to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Pamplona or Bordeaux?

How long in Bordeaux or Pamplona?

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

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

One day in Bordeaux or Pamplona?

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 Pamplona offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Pamplona?

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.

Pamplona 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 spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Pamplona, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Bordeaux or Pamplona?

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.

Pamplona 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 Pamplona?

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.

Pamplona is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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-Week Tours in Spain, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Spain.

When comparing the travel costs between Bordeaux and Pamplona, we can see that Pamplona 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 Pamplona Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Bordeaux or Pamplona?

Bordeaux has a larger population, and is about 55% larger than the population of Pamplona. When comparing the sizes of Bordeaux and Pamplona, 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 Pamplona?

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 Pamplona in the Summer?

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

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Pamplona this time of the year. In Bordeaux, it's very sunny this time of the year. Bordeaux usually receives more sunshine than Pamplona during summer. Bordeaux gets 276 hours of sunny skies, while Pamplona receives 209 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Bordeaux usually receives less rain than Pamplona. Bordeaux gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Bordeaux or Pamplona in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Bordeaux as well as Pamplona. 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 Pamplona for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

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

In the autumn, Bordeaux often gets more sunshine than Pamplona. Bordeaux gets 165 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pamplona receives 144 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Pamplona. Bordeaux usually gets less rain in October than Pamplona. Bordeaux gets 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bordeaux or Pamplona in the Winter?

Both Pamplona 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 Pamplona in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

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

Bordeaux usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Pamplona during winter. Bordeaux gets 86 hours of sunny skies, while Pamplona receives 85 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pamplona. It's quite rainy in Bordeaux. In January, Bordeaux usually receives less rain than Pamplona. Bordeaux gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Bordeaux or Pamplona in the Spring?

Both Pamplona 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. Furthermore, most visitors come to Pamplona for the activities around the city during these months.

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

In the spring, Bordeaux often gets more sunshine than Pamplona. Bordeaux gets 190 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pamplona receives 141 hours of full sun.

Pamplona gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Bordeaux usually gets less rain in April than Pamplona. Bordeaux gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Pamplona and Bordeaux