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

Should you visit Bordeaux or Rijeka?

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

Should I visit Bordeaux or Rijeka? 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.

Rijeka

Rijeka is a accessible, diverse, and slow-paced town. 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.

Bordeaux and Rijeka: 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
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • 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 Rijeka?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bordeaux than Rijeka, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Bordeaux is more popular for its food, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Rijeka is known for its nightlife and beaches. Bordeaux is more touristy than Rijeka and is known for its world-renowned wine and the many nearby vineyards. It is also home to Cathédrale Saint-André. Rijeka is popular for being a transportation hub in Croatia with a ferry and cruise ship port.

How is Bordeaux different from Rijeka?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Bordeaux
Rijeka

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

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 Rijeka. Historical sights around town include Trsat Castle, the Petar Druzic Stairway, and Our Lady of Trsat. There are also museums such as PEEK&POKE Computer Museum and the Governor's Palace and Maritime and Historical Museum.


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

Bordeaux
Rijeka

Bordeaux is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

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 Rijeka. It's known for its Mediterranean cuisine which includes more than seafood. There are local vegetable specialties in the area as well including asparagus and white truffles. Codfish stew and cuttlefish risotto are also popular.

Is Bordeaux or Rijeka Better for Nightlife?

Bordeaux
Rijeka

Rijeka 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 Rijeka know how to have a good time. The city center has plenty of bars and clubs. Restaurants also stay open late and are popular places to hang out for locals and tourists alike.

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 Rijeka Better for Beaches?

Bordeaux
Rijeka

Rijeka is a town with a few options for the beache. However, Bordeaux is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Rijeka. There are pebbly and gravelly beaches in the area, with the best beaches to the west of the city. You'll need to take a public bus to reach most of them.

Bordeaux is not a beach destination.


Is Bordeaux or Rijeka Better for its Old Town?

Bordeaux
Rijeka

Bordeaux is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Rijeka 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.

Rijeka does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Bordeaux or Rijeka?

Bordeaux
Rijeka

Bordeaux is a well-known place for its shopping areas. Also, Rijeka 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 Rijeka. There are many shopping centers, retail stores, and souvenir shops around town.

Is Bordeaux or Rijeka Better for Families?

Bordeaux
Rijeka

Rijeka is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Rijeka is a very kid-friendly town. The city has a number of outdoor activities for kids like nature parks and nearby beaches. There's also a puppet theater as well as the Astronomical Center of Rijeka.

Bordeaux offers lots of family activities. 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.


Is Bordeaux or Rijeka Better for Couples?

Bordeaux
Rijeka

Bordeaux is a well-known place for couples. Also, Rijeka 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.

Rijeka is a nice destination for couples. It's a gateway to the Croatian islands. Many couples enjoy walking down the waterfront promenade or dining at a nice local restaurant. There are also beaches, parks, and historical sights to explore.

Is Bordeaux or Rijeka Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bordeaux
Rijeka

Bordeaux and Rijeka 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.

Rijeka is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There's no shortage of affordable hostels around town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Bordeaux or Rijeka Better for Students?

Bordeaux
Rijeka

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

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.

Plenty of students visit Rijeka. It's a laid back seaside city that makes a nice semester abroad destination. As a gateway to the Croatian islands, it also offers transportation connections to other points of interest.


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

Bordeaux
Rijeka

Bordeaux is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Bordeaux. There are buses, trams and a ferry that runs along the river.

Rijeka has some public transit options. KD Autrolej buses provide transit throughout the city.

Is Bordeaux or Rijeka a more walkable city?

Bordeaux
Rijeka

Bordeaux is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. Also, Rijeka 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.

Rijeka is somewhat walkable. Parts of the city are more walkable than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Rijeka or Bordeaux?

How long in Bordeaux or Rijeka?

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

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

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

One day in Bordeaux or Rijeka?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Bordeaux. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The town of Rijeka 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 Rijeka?

Bordeaux is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

Five days in Bordeaux or Rijeka?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bordeaux. Don't miss the food, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Rijeka 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 Rijeka?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the charming destination of Bordeaux. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Rijeka 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 Adventure Tours to Croatia, and The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in Croatia.


Which place is cheaper, Rijeka 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 Rijeka is €95. 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 Rijeka in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bordeaux 63
    Rijeka 50
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bordeaux 126
    Rijeka 100
Compare Hotels in Bordeaux and Rijeka

Looking for a hotel in Bordeaux or Rijeka? 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 Rijeka


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 Rijeka Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bordeaux 15
    Rijeka 16

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 Rijeka?

Prices for flights to both Rijeka 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
    Rijeka 34

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
    Rijeka 8.89

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 Rijeka

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

  • Drava Sup Exploring Adventure: $44
  • History of Military Forts Guided Tour: $64
  • Tour the underground with no experience required: $64
  • From Golden Island of Krk Tour: $93
  • Pula, Rovinj, and Panoramic Istrian Coast Tour: $121
  • Istria Highlights Tour from Rijeka or Pula: $122
  • Private Guided Walking Tour: $127
  • Private Walking Cultural Tour of Rijeka: $235
  • Ucka Mountain: Guided Hiking Tour: $449
  • Private Sunset Boat Tour: $631

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bordeaux 26
    Rijeka 16

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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bordeaux and Rijeka, we can see that Bordeaux is more expensive. And not only is Rijeka much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Rijeka would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Rijeka 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 Rijeka.

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


Which is Bigger, Bordeaux or Rijeka?

Bordeaux has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Rijeka. When comparing the sizes of Bordeaux and Rijeka, 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 Rijeka?

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 Rijeka in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Bordeaux and Rijeka. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bordeaux this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Rijeka for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Bordeaux is cooler than Rijeka. Typically, the summer temperatures in Bordeaux in July average around 21°C (69°F), and Rijeka averages at about 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Rijeka 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 Rijeka during summer. Bordeaux gets 276 hours of sunny skies, while Rijeka receives 288 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Bordeaux usually receives less rain than Rijeka. Bordeaux gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bordeaux 21°C (69°F) 
    Rijeka 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Bordeaux or Rijeka in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Bordeaux as well as Rijeka. Many travelers come to Bordeaux for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Rijeka in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Bordeaux is generally around the same temperature as Rijeka. Daily temperatures in Bordeaux average around 14°C (58°F), and Rijeka fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Bordeaux often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Rijeka. Bordeaux gets 165 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rijeka receives 167 hours of full sun.

Bordeaux usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Rijeka. Bordeaux gets 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bordeaux 14°C (58°F) 
    Rijeka 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Bordeaux or Rijeka in the Winter?

Both Rijeka and Bordeaux are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Bordeaux in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Rijeka for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Bordeaux is a little warmer than Rijeka in the winter. The daily temperature in Bordeaux averages around 6°C (43°F) in January, and Rijeka fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Bordeaux usually receives less sunshine than Rijeka during winter. Bordeaux gets 86 hours of sunny skies, while Rijeka receives 96 hours of full sun in the winter.

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


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bordeaux 6°C (43°F) 
    Rijeka 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Bordeaux or Rijeka in the Spring?

Both Rijeka and Bordeaux during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Bordeaux for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Rijeka because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Bordeaux is cooler than Rijeka. Typically, the spring temperatures in Bordeaux in April average around 12°C (53°F), and Rijeka averages at about 13°C (56°F).

In the spring, Bordeaux often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Rijeka. Bordeaux gets 190 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rijeka receives 177 hours of full sun.

Bordeaux usually gets less rain in April than Rijeka. Bordeaux gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bordeaux 12°C (53°F) 
    Rijeka 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Rijeka and Bordeaux

Bordeaux Rijeka
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (43°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 5°C (41°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Feb 7°C (45°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 7°C (44°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Mar 9°C (48°F) 76 mm (3 in) 9°C (49°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Apr 12°C (53°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 13°C (56°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
May 15°C (59°F) 77 mm (3 in) 18°C (64°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Jun 18°C (65°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 22°C (71°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Jul 21°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 24°C (75°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Aug 20°C (68°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 24°C (74°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Sep 18°C (65°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 20°C (68°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Oct 14°C (58°F) 88 mm (3.5 in) 16°C (60°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Nov 9°C (49°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 10°C (51°F) 114 mm (4.5 in)
Dec 7°C (44°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 6°C (44°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)