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

Should you visit Bruges or Bordeaux?

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 Bordeaux. 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. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a historical, elegant, and charming 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. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Bruges and Bordeaux: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bruges or Bordeaux?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Bordeaux than Bruges, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Bordeaux is more popular for its food, shopping, and big city activities, while Bruges is known for its museums, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Bruges is popular for its scenic old town, charming streets, local chocolate, and unique Christmas market. Bordeaux is popular for its world-renowned wine and the many nearby vineyards. It is also home to Cathédrale Saint-André.

How is Bruges different from Bordeaux?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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.

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 Bruges or Bordeaux? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bordeaux is very popular for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Bruges is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Eat your way through Bordeaux, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Bruges makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Is Bruges or Bordeaux Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is good in both Bruges and Bordeaux.

If you're looking for night time activities Bruges has a few options to choose from. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Bordeaux. The city comes to life at night with dance clubs, wine bars, student pubs, and more.

Is Bruges or Bordeaux Better for its Old Town?

Bruges 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 Bruges is revered around the world. The old town is the main attraction, with its quaint cobblestone streets and beautiful brick architecture.

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 Bruges or Bordeaux?

Bordeaux 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 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.

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 Bordeaux Better for Families?

Both Bruges and Bordeaux are good family-friendly destinations.

Bruges offers lots of family activities. 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.

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.

Is Bruges or Bordeaux Better for Couples?

Bruges and Bordeaux 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.

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.

Is Bruges or Bordeaux Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Bruges is a great city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Bordeaux is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a handful of hostels and a diversity of activities that backpackers can enjoy.

Is Bruges or Bordeaux Better for Students?

Bordeaux is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Bruges is not popular with students.

Many students visit Bordeaux. 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.

Bruges is not popular with students.

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

Bordeaux is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Bruges is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

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

Bruges has a few public transit options. There is a bus system that connects the train station to the old town. Otherwise, the city is best explored on foot.

Is Bruges or Bordeaux a more walkable city?

Bruges is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Bruges on foot is easy. The train station is a short walk from the old town but the city is very walkable and best explored on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Bordeaux or Bruges?

How long in Bruges or Bordeaux?

In either Bruges or Bordeaux, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Bordeaux than Bruges because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bruges, and 2-5 days is enough time in Bordeaux.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bruges 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 Bruges.

One day in Bruges or Bordeaux?

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 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.

A weekend in Bruges or Bordeaux?

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.

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.

Five days in Bruges or Bordeaux?

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 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.

A week in Bruges or Bordeaux?

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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the romantic 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium, The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

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

Which is Bigger, Bruges or Bordeaux?

Bordeaux has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Bruges. When comparing the sizes of Bruges and Bordeaux, 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 Bordeaux?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Bruges or Bordeaux in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bruges as well as Bordeaux. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bruges this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bordeaux for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Bruges is generally cooler than Bordeaux. Daily temperatures in Bruges average around 17°C (63°F), and Bordeaux fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bordeaux. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bruges this time of the year. In the summer, Bruges often gets less sunshine than Bordeaux. Bruges gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bordeaux receives 276 hours of full sun.

Bruges usually gets more rain in July than Bordeaux. Bruges gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bruges or Bordeaux in the Autumn?

Both Bordeaux and Bruges are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Bruges for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Bordeaux in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Bruges is cooler than Bordeaux in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bruges averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Bordeaux fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Bruges usually receives less sunshine than Bordeaux during autumn. Bruges gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Bordeaux receives 165 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bruges usually receives less rain than Bordeaux. Bruges gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Bruges or Bordeaux in the Winter?

Both Bordeaux and Bruges during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Bruges in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bruges in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Bordeaux averages at about 6°C (43°F).

In the winter, Bruges often gets less sunshine than Bordeaux. Bruges gets 47 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bordeaux receives 86 hours of full sun.

Bordeaux gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Bruges usually gets less rain in January than Bordeaux. Bruges gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bruges or Bordeaux in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bruges and Bordeaux. Most visitors come to Bruges for the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Bordeaux because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Bruges is generally cooler than Bordeaux. Daily temperatures in Bruges average around 8°C (47°F), and Bordeaux fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Bruges usually receives less sunshine than Bordeaux during spring. Bruges gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Bordeaux receives 190 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bruges usually receives less rain than Bordeaux. Bruges gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Bordeaux and Bruges