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

Should you visit Bordeaux or Siena?

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

Should I visit Bordeaux or Siena? 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. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Siena

Siena is a beautiful, romantic, and charming 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 Siena: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bordeaux or Siena?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bordeaux than Siena. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Bordeaux is very popular for its food, shopping, and big city activities, while Siena attracts visitors for its museums, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Bordeaux is more touristy than Siena and is known for its world-renowned wine and the many nearby vineyards. It is also well known for Cathédrale Saint-André. Siena is famous for its beautiful medieval architecture, its delicious local restaurants, and the twice yearly Palio horserace.

How is Bordeaux different from Siena?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Siena is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Siena offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. At the heart of the city is Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and Piazza del Campo. Other world famous sights include Palazzo Pubblico and Museo Civico, Torre del Mangia, and Pinacoteca Nazionale.

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 Siena? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bordeaux is very popular for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Siena is not as famous, but is still a good city 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.

Siena has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The town is all about local flavors and many restaurants use local ingredients in their dishes. Pecorino of Pienza is the local cheese, and you'll also find many cured meats. Local pasta dishes include wild boar ragu and a local spaghetti. You'll also find local meats such as lamb, rabbit, chicken and pork.

Is Bordeaux or Siena Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Bordeaux or Siena 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 Siena has a few options to choose from. The nightlife is laid back and relaxed. Most visitors enjoy socializing in the evening and meeting friends at Piazza del Campo. There are often live performances which you can enjoy as well as many cafes and wine bars around town.

Is Bordeaux or Siena Better for its Old Town?

Siena 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 Siena is revered around the world. The beautiful old town is filled with medieval brick buildings. At the heart of the city is Piazza del Campo, which is a lively square with many neighborhoods spreading out from there.

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 Siena?

Bordeaux is notable for shopping. Also, Siena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Bordeaux is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Siena. The main shopping street in town is Via Banchi di Sopra, which has many boutiques that sell clothing, bags, and other items. The town also has many leather goods, ceramics, and other local items available.

Is Bordeaux or Siena Better for Families?

Bordeaux is very good for its family-friendly activities. However, Siena is a mediocre city for its kid-friendly activities.

Bordeaux is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Siena is not always a place people visit with their families. The beauty and history may be lost to the little ones but there is a great atmosphere that even the young ones will appreciate. Kids will enjoy climbing to the top of Torre del Mangia or visiting one of the many playgrounds around town.

Is Bordeaux or Siena Better for Couples?

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

Siena makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. With its impressive beauty and long running history, this is a truly romantic city. The atmosphere is relaxed and there are plazas and neighborhoods that are great for exploring. There are also many great restaurants, superb wine, and world class sights that are not to be missed.

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 Siena Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bordeaux and Siena are nice 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.

Siena is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Many backpackers visit Siena as a daytrip from nearby Florence. While there are some affordable places to stay here, the atmosphere isn't as backpacker friendly as nearby Florence.

Is Bordeaux or Siena Better for Students?

Bordeaux and Siena are great places to visit for 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.

Siena is very popular with students. It's home to one of the oldest universities in Italy, and it's a wonderful study abroad destination for any student who wants to spend some time in Italy.

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

Bordeaux is notable for its public transit. Also, Siena 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 is fairly effecient and thorough. There are buses, trams and a ferry that runs along the river.

Siena has some public transit options. TIEMME is the bus service that runs in and around town. Many lines pass through the train station and provide service from there.

Is Bordeaux or Siena a more walkable city?

Bordeaux and Siena both are great when exploring on foot.

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

Siena is a very walkable destination. The compact town center is best explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Siena or Bordeaux?

How long in Bordeaux or Siena?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bordeaux than Siena 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.

One day in Bordeaux or Siena?

In Bordeaux, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historical destination offers. Lots of people come for the food. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bordeaux. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

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

Five days in Bordeaux or Siena?

Bordeaux is a fun place to experience. In Bordeaux, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the food. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Siena 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 Siena?

You'll find food and shopping around the historical destination of Bordeaux. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Siena is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Italy, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Bordeaux or Siena?

Bordeaux has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Siena. When comparing the sizes of Bordeaux and Siena, 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 Siena?

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 Siena in the Summer?

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

In July, Bordeaux is generally cooler than Siena. Daily temperatures in Bordeaux average around 21°C (69°F), and Siena fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Siena this time of the year. In Bordeaux, it's very sunny this time of the year. Bordeaux usually receives less sunshine than Siena during summer. Bordeaux gets 276 hours of sunny skies, while Siena receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Bordeaux usually receives around the same amount of rain as Siena. Bordeaux gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Siena receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Bordeaux or Siena in the Autumn?

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

Bordeaux is cooler than Siena in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bordeaux averages around 14°C (58°F) in October, and Siena fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Bordeaux often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Siena. Bordeaux gets 165 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Siena receives 177 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Bordeaux or Siena in the Winter?

Both Siena 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 Siena for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Bordeaux is cooler than Siena. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bordeaux in January average around 6°C (43°F), and Siena averages at about 7°C (45°F).

Bordeaux usually receives less sunshine than Siena during winter. Bordeaux gets 86 hours of sunny skies, while Siena receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Bordeaux. In January, Bordeaux usually receives more rain than Siena. Bordeaux gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Siena receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Bordeaux or Siena in the Spring?

Both Siena 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. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Siena because of the natural beauty.

In April, Bordeaux is generally around the same temperature as Siena. Daily temperatures in Bordeaux average around 12°C (53°F), and Siena fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the spring, Bordeaux often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Siena. Bordeaux gets 190 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Siena receives 192 hours of full sun.

Bordeaux usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Siena. Bordeaux gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Siena receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Siena and Bordeaux