A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bruges vs. Biarritz for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Bruges or Biarritz?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Bruges and Biarritz. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Bruges

Bruges is a cultural, beautiful, and historic city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Biarritz

Biarritz is a cultural, relaxing, and quirky seaside town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Bruges and Biarritz: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bruges or Biarritz?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bruges. Although Bruges and Biarritz are both popular with visitors, Bruges has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Bruges is more popular for its museums, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Biarritz is known for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, shopping, and small town charm. Bruges is more touristy than Biarritz and is known for its scenic old town, charming streets, local chocolate, and unique Christmas market. It is also home to Bruges' Markt (The Main Square). Biarritz is popular for its surfing culture, long beaches, and seaside atmosphere.

How is Bruges different from Biarritz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Biarritz and Bruges. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bruges or Biarritz?

Bruges is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Biarritz is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

Bruges offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is filled with charming hidden corners as well as notable landmarks. The main square is Bruges' Markt which is where you'll find the the Belfry Tower. Other must-see sights include the Historium, Groeninge Museum, the Town Hall, and Brugse Vrije Museum.

Biarritz offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people pass their time relaxing on the beach or taking a walk, but you can also visit the Biarritz Aquarium or the Biarritz Lighthouse.

Is the Food Better in Bruges or Biarritz? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Bruges and Biarritz offer superb local cuisine and restaurants.

Bruges has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. From its world class breweries to its famous chocolate shops, there is plenty to eat and drink around town. In the old town prices can be a bit high, but the dishes and atmosphere are great. Popular local dishes include Belgian waffles, fries, mussels, and beef stew.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Biarritz makes for a great culinary experience. The food is a delicious mix of French, Spanish, and Basque flavors. Seafood is an obvious influence, but you'll also find meat and bread in many dishes. Local specialties include the oysters, pintxos (a snack of bread topped with ham, cheese, or vegetables), and marmitako (tuna stew).

Is Bruges or Biarritz Better for Nightlife?

Biarritz is great for its evening party scene. Also, Bruges is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

Many people head to Biarritz for the nightlife scene. The city center has the most bars and clubs if you're looking for a party. Head to Port Vieux or Les Halles for some of the city's best nightlife. For a more relaxed night out, there are night markets as well as beach front terraces and rooftops where you can sip wine in a mellow atmosphere.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Bruges. It's famous for its beer and breweries, so you'll find a number of places to gather in the evening. There is a lack of nightclubs, so if dancing and partying hard is your style, then this may not be your place. The vibes are generally chill and relaxed at night. Most places are concentrated around old town or near Kuipersstraat or Zilverstraat.

Is Bruges or Biarritz Better for Resorts?

Biarritz is great for its luxury resorts. However, Bruges is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Biarritz to choose from. You'll find a mix of holiday cottages, vacation rentals, and beachfront hotels. There are also hostels around town for those on a budget.

Bruges is not a resort destination.

Is Bruges or Biarritz Better for Beaches?

Biarritz is great for the beach. However, Bruges is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Biarritz for it's beautiful beaches. There are plenty of sandy beaches near the town that offer great surfing. For calmer water you can head to some of the smaller bays. Some of the most popular beaches in the area include Le Grande Plage, Plage du Miramar, and Plage Port Vieux.

Bruges is not a beach destination.

Is Bruges or Biarritz Better for its Old Town?

Bruges is renowned for its old town. However, Biarritz does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Bruges is one of the most recognized in the world. The old town is the main attraction, with its quaint cobblestone streets and beautiful brick architecture.

Biarritz does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Bruges or Biarritz?

Biarritz is great for its shopping areas. Also, Bruges is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Biarritz. The town has many market halls, boutiques, and department stores. Head to Avenue de Verdun for some quirky local stores or Place Georges Clemenceau for more high end shopping.

Bruges is a great destination for shopping. The city offers plenty of shopping, whether you're looking for souvenirs, trendy European brands, or local items. It's more geared towards tourists than locals, and you want find the same diversity that you get in some of the larger nearby cities, but you'll find unique lace items and other local goods in the old town. The streets around Markt Square, Steenstraat, Geld Monstraat, and Jakobstraat are the main shopping areas.

Is Bruges or Biarritz Better for Families?

Biarritz is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Bruges is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Biarritz. The sandy beaches are great for surfing, but you'll also find some calm water where kids can play. There are plenty of surf schools in the area that will help kids learn if they're just beginning to surf. Kids who love the ocean will find tons of entertainment in this seaside town.

Bruges is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy sampling the unique chocolate around town, eating their fill of waffles, and getting their energy out in the park or at a local playground. There are also canal boat tours and horse drawn carriage rides that are fun for the whole family.

Is Bruges or Biarritz Better for Couples?

Bruges and Biarritz both superb destinations for a couple.

Bruges is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. This romantic city has amazing restaurants, charming streets, and impressive architecture. Couples will enjoy exploring the canals by boat or taking a horse drawn carriage ride through the old town. There are also a number of cute bed and breakfasts where you can stay.

Biarritz is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many coastal walks, sandy beaches, and surfing opportunities that couples can enjoy. Combine that with great French cuisine and a lively atmosphere, and you won't find a better couples getaway.

Is Bruges or Biarritz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Bruges and Biarritz are superb places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Bruges. There are a few good hostels around town. The city sees its share of tourists, but many arrive as part of tours or river boat cruises. If you stay in a hostel, you shouldn't have trouble meeting other young travelers though. There are also plenty of well known breweries where you can gather with friends.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Biarritz. The town attracts surfers and there are plenty of hostels and other accommodation options for budget travelers or backpackers.

Is Bruges or Biarritz Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bruges and Biarritz both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Bruges offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a bus system that connects the train station to the old town. Otherwise, the city is best explored on foot.

Biarritz has a few public transit options. There are regional bus lines to nearby towns operated by Chronoplus and PESA.

Is Bruges or Biarritz a more walkable city?

Bruges is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Biarritz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Bruges. The train station is a short walk from the old town but the city is very walkable and best explored on foot.

Biarritz is a very walkable destination. The city center is very walkable and you can reach many of the beaches on foot as well.

For even more information, also check out Is Bruges Worth Visiting? and Is Biarritz Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Biarritz or Bruges?

How long in Bruges or Biarritz?

Both Bruges and Biarritz have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Biarritz than in Bruges. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bruges, and 3-7 days is enough time in Biarritz.

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

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

One day in Bruges or Biarritz?

The beautiful city of Bruges 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.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Biarritz. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Bruges or Biarritz?

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

Biarritz is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Bruges or Biarritz?

Bruges 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Biarritz. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Bruges or Biarritz?

Bruges 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.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the relaxing destination of Biarritz. This seaside town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium, The Best Tours for Seniors to France, and The Best Contiki Tours to France.

When comparing the travel costs between Bruges and Biarritz, we can see that Biarritz 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 Bruges Expensive? and Is Biarritz Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Bruges or Biarritz?

Bruges has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Biarritz. When comparing the sizes of Bruges and Biarritz, 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 Bruges or Biarritz?

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 Bruges or Biarritz in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Bruges and Biarritz. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bruges this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Biarritz for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Bruges is generally cooler than Biarritz. Daily temperatures in Bruges average around 17°C (63°F), and Biarritz fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Biarritz this time of the year. In Bruges, it's very sunny this time of the year. Bruges usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Biarritz during summer. Bruges gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Biarritz receives 209 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Bruges usually receives less rain than Biarritz. Bruges gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Bruges or Biarritz in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Bruges as well as Biarritz. Many travelers come to Bruges for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Biarritz in the autumn for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

Bruges is cooler than Biarritz in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bruges averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Biarritz fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In the autumn, Bruges often gets less sunshine than Biarritz. Bruges gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Biarritz receives 144 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Biarritz. Bruges usually gets less rain in October than Biarritz. Bruges gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bruges or Biarritz in the Winter?

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

Bruges can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Bruges is much colder than Biarritz. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bruges in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Biarritz averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Bruges usually receives less sunshine than Biarritz during winter. Bruges gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Biarritz receives 85 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Biarritz. In January, Bruges usually receives less rain than Biarritz. Bruges gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Bruges or Biarritz in the Spring?

Both Biarritz and Bruges during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Bruges for the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Biarritz because of the beaches and the small town charm.

In April, Bruges is generally cooler than Biarritz. Daily temperatures in Bruges average around 8°C (47°F), and Biarritz fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the spring, Bruges often gets more sunshine than Biarritz. Bruges gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Biarritz receives 141 hours of full sun.

Biarritz gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Bruges usually gets less rain in April than Biarritz. Bruges gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Biarritz and Bruges